Japanese Maple Losing Leaves

[bargepole]

After a super spring display of leaves I've noticed many of these leaves have now turned brown and can easily be pulled off the tree. Probably nearly 50% of the leaves are now off. The plant is about 24in. tall and in a pot. It is in the same Garden position as previous years when I've never had this problem.Position is sheltered dappled shade well out of morning sun. Anyone any ideas what might have caused this dramatic leave loss?

[woofgang]

bargepole, two possibilies spring to mind (well three to be pedantic). The first is a short dry spell - perhaps the pot didn't get rained on or lacked water for some other reason. The second is windy weather which can damage leaves, especially the feathery variety, the third is a combination of the two. If any of these is right, then TLC and gentle watering should make new leaves grow. Some bonsai enthusiasts actually cut the all mature leaves off their trees to get a second crop of spring like growth, this second growth of leaves is also often smaller and more refined than the first.

[bargepole]

Thanks woofgang, possibly caused by dry spring weather and me being away a lot and not being able to monitor the plant properly.Will keep my an eye on it in future so I can spot the early signs of any problems.

[paulz]

Bargepole - I'd say definately lack of water, I think you can get a gadget that will release water over a period of time, failing that, try a lemonade bottle plugged with kitchen towel [and full of water] buried into the pot. This should allow it to percolate into the soil and also chuck in some water retaining granules buried well in the earth. ;+)