Japanese Maple for Zone 3?

(Question)

Just wondering if you have a variety of Japanese Maple that can survive winter in a zone 3. I live in Saskatchewan and am interested especially in a smaller type and where can I order one.

(Answer)

Thanks for your inquiry about growing Japanese maples in Saskatchewan.

Unfortunately, Japanese maples will not survive in a Canadian z. 3 climate, even with winter protection. Generally, they do best in at least Canadian z.5-6 or milder conditions in a sheltered area and with some winter protection during the first few years of growing. Even in the Toronto area z.6a, some Japanese maples are borderline hardy–most survive with proper siting and protection.

Who knows? Maybe someone someday will develop a cold-hardy Japanese maple that can be grown in Saskatchewan.