Re potting

[fbg40]

Hi
I have a couple of Acers in tubs that are well into leaf but really need moving into a larger tub. When would be the best time to move them - now or when they are are dormant ?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
FBG40

[Frank97]

If you just intend removing them from the old pot and placing them in a larger pot without disturbing the root ball then now will be fine, if you are going to tease the roots out into the new pot then leave them until they are dormant. Also if employing the first method I would advise only watering the original root ball when repotted and not the soil around as they dont like being surrounded by wet soggy soil. I would also advise to use ericatious compost mixed 50/50 with john innis no3.
This is what I have done with my small collection and the all seem to be doing fine. The only one that I did lose was a Purple Ghost that I did tease the roots out of at this time of the year.
Hope this was of some help.

[fbg40]

Thanks for a very comprehensive answer. Will certainly take all on board.
Thanks again
FBG40

[carlton23]

Sorry, but I must disagree with adding John Innes No3 due to there being lime in the mix, as any ericaceous plants dislike it, so use only ericaceous compost.

[Frank97]

I hear what your saying carlton, but ericatious on its own holds too much moisture.

[Frank97]

Here are a few photos taken yesterday of maples planted in the above mentioned mix.
http://i791.photobuck...97/D97x7/S1053214.jpg
http://i791.photobuck...97/D97x7/S1053211.jpg
http://i791.photobuck...97/D97x7/S1053209.jpg
http://i791.photobuck...97/D97x7/S1053204.jpg
As you can see growing perfectly happily.

[Frank97]

PS
Sorry for my incorrect spelling of ericaceous.

[fbg40]

Thanks for the replies and the pictures.
I have always used just ericaceous and must confess that all the books I've read suggest ericaceous, but do not doubt what you are saying about Innes no 3 (both of you !!) I see that your Acers D97x7 are well into leaf - mine are just coming into leaf (apart from one that is actually in the garden) but only uncovered them a couple of weeks ago. I always cover my mine with protection fleece for the winter.
Thanks again
FBG40