Love Japanese Maples

[ckroeg]

I would really love a Japanese Maple tree in my yard, but I live in Zone 4, Minnesota, Southern Suburbs Twin Cites. I know that they are only hardy to Zone 5, but they do sell them here. Some people plant them in pots and bring them inside in the winter. This is not an option for me, at least after the tree gets over 6 feet or so.

Is there anything I could do to increase my chances of*keeping the tree alive in our winters? I would hate to spend the money and have the*tree die the first year. They are pricey trees. *Is the issue with the freezing of the root system or the tree above ground it's self? If it is the tree itself what would I be looking at as far* protection needed for the location of the tree or taking care in the winter? If it is the root system, is there anything simple you could do to help keep it warmer? Mulching? Covering the ground? Under ground garden heating, if there is such a thing? If I needed to protect the tree itself in winter, I would put it in the south corner positioned between privacy fencing and the house. Since they are a smaller tree would I have any issue with keeping it planted right at the corner of the house, such as roots and foundation??

I would do anything to have one, they are so unique and beautiful. I wish someone would make a Zone 4 hardy hybrid.

Thanks

Chris

[Newt]

Chris, This site lists aome zone 4 Japanese maple trees.* Just search by zone without anything else.
http://www.mountainmaples.com/WS4D_C...27/search.html

Newt

[Newt]

Chris, I was looking for something and stumbled on this site about Asian maples for cold climates.* Hope it helps.* :)
http://www.weedpatch.com/hidden/wp_m...arlson_s98.pdf

Newt

[ckroeg]

Thanks Newt

I will take a look at them this week.

[Newt]

You are so very welcome! I'd love to know if you find one you like.* :)

Newt

[backyardgardener]

[align=left]You could put the tree in a large pot with wheels and roll into your garage in the winter.[/align]

[ckroeg]

That is probably what we wil be doing with it.

chris

[Bud]

It's best to research which cultivars do better in colder climates before purchasing one.* You could place the tree on the south side of a structure if you're up north which will provide more sunlight and protection.* Additionally you could put the tree in a very large container or wooden box and move it into the garage or something during the winter.* If you do that however you'll need to ensure the roots stay moist but not soggy and provide it some kind of light during the day or the roots will rot.***