By Cazoo1
Worcestershire,
United Kingdom 
Before its consigned to the compost heap,maybe you could offer advice. I have had this Acer for about 3 years,potted it up with all the right soil and fed it with correct Acer feed.
But it has always looked sad,as the photo's show. It gets morning sun / shade /and is in a sheltered corner. The new growth you see is all it has done in 3 years. What else can I do,I cannot waste time and effort if it is not responding. I have another one that must be 30 years old and is magnificent,same conditions as this one. Do you think it would be happier planted in the garden ??
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
16 Sep, 2024
Answers
Yes, I would go for the 'plant it in the garden' route. Planted in a container throws up the, too wet, too dry, hungry for feed, congested roots situation. Just go for a shady spot, in prepared soil with not too much competition from other shrubs.
17 Sep, 2024
Mmmm it is a 2ft deep x 18inch wide pot...so I think the garden might be the next step. Would it need special prepared soil ??
Many thanks for the kind attention,much appreciated.
17 Sep, 2024
I would mix any old potting compost with horticultural grit sand or fine soil and mix it with the garden soil in a large area so as to encourage the roots to spread out. Don't forget to tease the roots out before re-planting and wait until spring before feeding. Keep watering but don't let the soil become sodden.
17 Sep, 2024
Interestingly, I have just answered a similar question on here.
I would give it a chance in the garden. It may be constrained in the pot now and will do better in the ground. However, be sure to check the potential size of the Acer before choosing your site.
20 Sep, 2024
Previous question
« Zantedeschia One of the above has appeared from nowhere in my garden in Kent...
Maybe a larger,deeper pot is necessary.The roots maybe congested...or perhaps plant in the garden.
16 Sep, 2024