Question
A friend and I are going to try growing Japanese Maples from seed. I've been reading a lot aboout getting them to germinate and all that. My question is how much sun will the seedlings tolerate? Here in middle TN, the sun can be brutal in summer. I thought they may need to be shaded with netting of some sort.(?) We plan on planting the stratified seed in a raised bed of good topsoil. Would the topsoil need anything added? (compost,perlite, sand, etc.?)Thanks,
Keith

Answer
Hi Keith,
Thanx for your question.  Japanese maples will benefit from shade in a hot, muggy summer.  If they're going to be in a temporary spot, just make sure they are protected from the sun from noon to 4pm.  In their permanent homes, they will need to be planted in the garden or yard in a place where natural shade will occur for the hot afternoon.  Additionally, I would amend the raised bed with some well-composted horse or cow manure.  Sheep or goat manure is ok too.  I hope this helps.
Tom