If you are looking for ways to increase the aesthetic appeal of your yard, you must consider planting a tree. While many cold-hardy trees will survive through zone 4 climates, if your objective is to add more character to your garden and enhance its looks all year round, you should consider getting a Japanese Maple tree.
To learn how to avoid that from happening and ensure your tree thrives in zone 4, keep reading. In this “Japanese Maple Zone 4” essential guide, we included everything you must know about growing these stunning trees in your garden without worrying about their survival.
Japanese Maple Zone 4
And who doesn’t like these plants? With their lush but delicate-looking foliage and oriental look, they can make any property look fancier.
But aren’t Japanese Maple trees best suited to more temperate climates? Yes, theoretically, these trees thrive in hardiness zones 5-9. However, you can successfully grow them in zone 4 too.
While they won’t withstand temperatures below -20F, they can survive through colder winters with adequate care. Indeed, the main issue with growing Japanese Maple in colder areas isn’t the weather or the temperatures. Instead, it is the disruption of dormancy that can be deadly and cause severe damage to your tree.
Japanese Maple Tree Care
Japanese maple trees grow best in temperate regions. But with careful selection and protection, you can still grow them in your garden if you live in zone 4.
Plant your Japanese tree on the north or east side of your house. Heat sources might warm your plant, causing it to emerge from its dormancy period, which can cause its death. Because your property usually reflects heat from the southern and western sides, following our recommendations can limit the damages caused by disruption of dormancy patterns.
Also, plant your tree in the spring, after the last spring frost, for best results. Doing so will allow your tree enough time to establish before getting used to the low temperatures of zone 4 winters.
Avoid pruning in the late summer and early fall. Only do so in the winter to encourage new growth and remove all dead branches while giving your tree enough time to recover for the spring.
In zone 4, you might have to shield your plants from winds that might damage your plant. Also, because of the shallow root, mulching is crucial. This practice helps regulate soil temperature and prevents your tree’s roots from freezing. You can even consider planting your tree in a container.
Doing so will allow you to move your plant to a sheltered location when the winter gets too cold. However, don’t forget to let your plant go dormant before moving it to prevent disturbing your tree’s natural cycle. Warming the roots too much won’t do any good to your plant. Keep a proper temperature. If you have a garage, consider placing your plant there over the winter.
Make sure you plant your tree somewhere it can receive full sun most of the day. Otherwise, pick a green variety: they perform better under partial shade.
Types of Japanese Maple Tree for Zone 4
While most Japanese trees do best in hardiness zones between 5 and 9, you can find cold-tolerant varieties that will survive zone 4 winters. In this section, we list our favorite species.
Ozakazuki
Ozakazuki produces a round crown with green leaves during the summer ad turns crimson in the fall. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall. After it establishes in your garden, it won’t require much attention. Besides frequent water, mulching, and protection during the coldest months of the year, there is not much more you have to do.
Katsura
Katsura grows up to 15 feet in height. Its leaves are light green and turn orange in the fall. While it does better in warmer hardiness zones, you can successfully grow it in zone 4, provided that you meet its basic requirements. For instance, locate it somewhere where it won’t suffer from harsh winds. In low temperatures in the winter, consider adding some protection, and don’t forget to mulch!
Beni Komachi
Beni Komachi is a dwarf Japanese Maple tree that works perfectly for limited spaces. It only grows six feet in height and displays beautiful foliage: it will make your tree stunning all year round. This plant is a fast grower: don’t forget to prune it annually to maintain its shape.