Japanese maple turns red 3 weeks early
The species Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) at the front corner of our house reliably goes scarlet in December, turning red to match the Christmas balls I hang on an agave by the front door. But this year the color change came three weeks early compared to last year.
Some of the leaves are freeze-burned because of the cold snap of a couple weeks ago – very early freeze for Austin. And now we have early fall color, and a pretty good show of it.
A coincidence? Probably not, but the ways of trees are a mystery to me. I just enjoy the magic when it comes.
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Digging Deeper: News and Upcoming Events
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is hosting Luminations, a holiday light display in the gardens, December 6th through 9th between 6 and 9 pm. Tickets are $15 per person, $10 for members, and free for children up to 4 years old.
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Gorgeous! I’m amazed how well Japanese maples do in your climate.
So long as they have shade, deep enough soil (not planted on top of caliche), and sufficient water, they seem to do pretty well. I haven’t been brave enough to plant any more in my garden, but I inherited this one and it’s surprised me with its vigor.
Pam, what are the ingredients in your succulents/cactus potting mix? or do you just buy premixed? I saw pictures from Jenny Stocker’s garden, it seems all gravels.
Nicole, I buy it from various sources or, for bigger pots, make my own from bagged landscapers mix and decomposed granite, mixed 50/50.