By Gillyroo
United Kingdom 
We have a beautiful variegated maple in our garden which always has distinct white parts to the bright green leaves. It has to be over 20years old, I would think. The tree is in an open position. In the past we've had small branches with green leaves, which we've removed. This year, the leaves overall are much darker and the variegation is barely noticeable. Is it likely to revert to it's former glory in years to come or is this it? It's always been like a 'light bulb' in the garden and it would be a shame if we lose it.
24 May, 2012
Answers
Was saying the very same thing this morning to someone passing by about mine Gillyroo,I did wonder if the weather was the cause the leaves are no where near as striking this year as they have been in the past.
24 May, 2012
Mine is similar too, you can see where the varigations will be, I think (and hope) it will sort itself out now we've some sun
24 May, 2012
Thank you for your answers. That gives me hope that it will soon be back to normal!
24 May, 2012
Most likely the weather conditions - light levels have been poor for the past few weeks, and its been cold. You should notice an improvement as time passes now the weather's so warm and bright. This assumes you've inspected the branches and trunk for signs of infestation or disease.
24 May, 2012