Newly purchased Acer Palmatum Desojo in poor state

We ordered this and it arrived looking very poorly. As novices we don’t know if this is normal. Any input gratefully received!

 

Welcome to the forum, well it looks to be really late leafing up I know that much, but I know next to nothing about acers so I'm just commenting to bump up your post to the top of the list, hopefully someone with more of an idea will reply soon!

Nick

 

Thanks!

 

Hi,

Cannot see clearly from those photos, but if there are no signs of buds on what looks like mostly bare stems we would contact the seller and look for a replacement or refund as it looks a very poor example.

Assume you saw a pic on the sellers site of ones looking better than what they sent, expect something that size cost a fair bit just in carriage ?!

If there are signs of plenty of buds down all those stem then keep it well watered and in a sheltered spot away from full sun and cold winds.

If all else fails can you get to a garden center ? where you should find much better ones in full leaf.

 

Many thanks. I think you have identified our worst fears. Yes, the picture was very different so we will pursue this with the vendor.

 

Hi threaten the dreadful sellers with social media, this seems to do the trickThe specimen you received is dreadful especially as Japanese Acers are usually not cheap!
Japanese Acers can also be quite tricky if you do not have the growing conditions they like.
Have a look at Sambucas Black Lace. A much easier, cheaper and faster growing alternative. Maybe also have a look for Acer Bloodgood, again an easier and faster growing variety to what you bought.

 

If the sellers do not come up with a decent plant or refund please do let us know who they are as it may help others from being caught out.