Addressing Stunted Leaves on Sunset Maple: Root Competition and Fertilization

Addressing Stunted Leaves on Sunset Maple: Root Competition and Fertilization

A 15-year-old sunset maple has small, stunted leaves this spring. Four hostas at base. Bark looks normal.

Causes

• Root competition: Hostas absorb water/nutrients from maple's shallow roots.
• Root damage: Planting hostas may have severed maple roots.

Action Plan

1. Water deeply once/week if no rain: 1 inch (measure with pan under sprinkler).
2. Fertilize: 10-10-10 at 1 lb per inch trunk diameter, spread to drip line, water in. Best before rain.
3. Hostas can stay if you maintain water/fertilizer.

Improved resources should increase leaf size and canopy density.