Struggling Acer

[RowsOfFlowers]

I planted a beautiful Acer tree last month as it was a birthday present from my mum!

It was thriving and looking beautiful until the last two weeks. The leaves have drastically shrivelled up and curled. I did wonder if it’s leaf scorch caused by the hot weather and sun? I have been watering it twice a week, as I’m keen not to overwater. Any advice? I’ve just put some acer food on it now and given it a good watering.

Well, prior to the heatwave, I was watering it about twice a week and giving it a good soaking, with sprinkler. I’m now watering it daily. Hoping it comes back to life, worried about it 😪

Have you actually measured how much water is going into the soil? I’d use a watering can and give it a 2x2 gallons at a time directly at the root area. It’s really hard to tell how much is going in with a sprinkler.

That’s a good point. I’ve stopped with the sprinkler now and have a hose directly at the root. Hard to measure how much is going in. Any tips?

So much better than a month ago.

I give it two big watering cans full.

Thanks @greengreyblue

Probably wouldn’t if it wasn’t quite so hot. Would give it one every few days in normal summer. Did no special watering last year. I think it was the heat and dryness so early in the season.

I think that’s what confused me too. You’re right - it’s been unusually hot.

Thank you for your help.

You could time how long your hose takes to fill a can and leave it on twice as long. It's also worth pouring or watering so the water soaks in rather than runs off.