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Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple

  • Whiplash87
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Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple was created by Whiplash87

Posted 9 years 2 months ago #23853
Can a lace leaf Japanese Maple survive indoors with artificial lighting? I understand they must have a dormancy period so I would take the maple outdoors in the fall. My concern is California sun scorching the plant. The maple would be underneath LED grow lights. Not sure what PAR level is needed yet just contemplating the notion. Would this be possible with timed lighting and taking the tree outside for fall through late spring? thanks in advance
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  • BonsaiLearner
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Replied by BonsaiLearner on topic Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple

Posted 9 years 2 months ago #23865
If you're USDA zone 5-8 you should be fine, otherwise look into grow lights (although I would prefer not to myself) or just shelter it.
A much better idea would be to get a tree that can actually live where you are, such as ficus or olea.
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Replied by Whiplash87 on topic Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple

Posted 9 years 2 months ago #23867
I'm in zone 9A. Tree inside for a few months would be for the novelty of it. Tree will have significant meaning. Summer time here concerns me due to sun scorching leaves with 110 heat. May have to just keep it in full to part shade outdoors. Mainly just wondering if it's doable. Don't want the tree dieing in a few months or years. Also porch space is limited due to apartment. House hunting next year
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  • leatherback
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Replied by leatherback on topic Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple

Posted 9 years 1 month ago #23874
It is virtually impossible. I say virtually, because every now and then someone pops up who is growing trees in a basement, with loads of adjustments.
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Replied by Whiplash87 on topic Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple

Posted 9 years 1 month ago #23882
Okay thanks guys, I'll have to clear some porch space
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Replied by BonsaiLearner on topic Artificial Lighting for Japanese Maple

Posted 9 years 1 month ago #23884
Maybe just wait until you've found a house. It will teach you about patience and give you time to research techniques, etc.
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