Question
Jim, We bought a small Japanese Maple tree last October and it's still in its pot.  We water it and it looks pretty good.  We still contemplating where to plant it in our yard.  Please advise if it needs partial shade or if it would survive full sun.  (Right now it gets partial shade.)  Any tips you can provide would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.  Gail

Answer
The Japanese maple grows best in a moist, well draining, fertile soil. When they are grown in areas with hot dry sun, they should be grown in partial shade (afternoon shade) to protect them from scorching. In northern areas, where summer temperatures are more moderate, they will do quite well in full sun. IF you have a partial shaded sopt I would choise that for the Maple.
Plant Japanese maples in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. It may be necessary to provide support stakes to prop up young slender branches until they have developed and strengthened, because the weight of the new foliage may tend to cause the branch to droop to the ground. These trees have tendency to leaf out very early, which unfortunately makes them susceptible to spring frosts. A late frost may result in a loss of the new foliage, but the tree generally survives without any damage.
Prune Japanese maples in late fall or winter, while they are dormant, removing any dead or damaged branches. They adapt well to pruning and are easily thinned and sculpted to accentuate their graceful shape. You may prune further to control the size, or create the shape which suits your landscape needs.
Fertilize in early spring by punching a series of 1-2 inch holes, 5-6 inches deep, and two feet apart, at the drip line. Fill each hole half way with a good all purpose (10-10-10), slow release plant food. Water thoroughly after feeding. (ALWAYS!)