When should I unwrap my young Japanese Maple that I planted in October 2023? It is south facing, no buildings or trees shadow it. It is in Scarborough.
Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners about removing winter protection from your Japanese maple (botanical name Acer palmatum). A young Japanese maple should be protected, from winter winds and from what is known as south-west injury, for the first 3 years after planting. This small deciduous tree, native to Japan, Korea and China, tends to ‘leaf out’ early so there is no hurry to unwrap the tree as early leaf growth may be damaged by frost. The burlap will need to be removed in early spring when the ground begins to thaw. The stakes holding the burlap could be left in place for you to do a quick wrap is frost threatens.
For information on average last frost date see Climate Zones and Planting Dates . . .
Wishing you much enjoyment of your Japanese Maple