Defoliated Acer

[EcclesCake]

I have an acer in a container and it has been stripped bare of its new leaves.

This is probably a daft question but will it produce new foliage to replace what has been lost?

[Chipchopper]

Stripped bare you say, any idea of the cause/culprit ?.
Ok, I'll hazard a guess and assume its leaf-scorch and its one of the Japanese maples ie: Acer palmatum variety.
These Acers can be prone to leaf-scorch, due to cold drying winds, sharp frosts and exposure to strong midday sun.
If the tree is in a pot, I think moving it to a more sheltered spot, in the garden may well help to revive it, if kept well watered.
If its in the ground, I wouldn't attempt to move it, as they hate root disturbance. Waiting to October would be a safer option if you decide on that.
Another alternative might be to provide some shelter from the elements, in its permanent position with the aid of a fine mesh screen, just as a temporary measure until the weather improves.
I often think that they come into leaf, too early for their own good, my Acer is well ahead of the native oak and ash, nearby but luckily or hopefully its fairly well sheltered.
Above all keep it well watered, and if you can mulch around the roots, that will also help to retain moisture.

Good luck with it ...Chip.

[EcclesCake]

I know exactly what defoliated it..........chickens!

I'm just hoping they haven't killed them as they are quite mature and rather lovely, as are their tender tips it would seem.

I'm just hoping that if I put them in a more secure environment they will push out some fresh leaves :-/

[Chipchopper]

Chickens are one pest that I hadn't considered ;-)

With a bit of luck, hopefully you'l get a second flush of leaves!!