Bud swelling?

[Arbol]

Hey all,

We’ve had some very warm days the past couple of weeks here in Salt Lake. I’ve noticed what I suspect are swollen buds on my Coonara Pygmy J Maple. The other maples in my collection do not have buds that look this “swollen”.

I am new and am wondering if this is what we’d consider “swollen buds”.

 

[Dav4]

I’d call those “ripe” buds, meaning they’ve matured enough to successfully break dormancy and begin the spring growth period, not to be confused with buds that are actually breaking dormancy.

 

[Arbol]

I’d call those “ripe” buds, meaning they’ve matured enough to successfully break dormancy and begin the spring growth period, not to be confused with buds that are actually breaking dormancy.

Gotcha. Can I assume that in the coming weeks the buds will swell signifying an appropriate time to repot?

Also, with the buds being “ripe”, are the roots still currently dormant or will I have to learn the bonsai shuffle?

 

[Deep Sea Diver]

To a certain extent buds push independently to the tree breaking dormancy.

One can slow things down by placing the tree in a colder, shadier spot.

cheers
DSD sends

 

[Dav4]

Gotcha. Can I assume that in the coming weeks the buds will swell signifying an appropriate time to repot?

Also, with the buds being “ripe”, are the roots still currently dormant or will I have to learn the bonsai shuffle?

I suspect your tree is still very cold hardy and should be fine staying outside if protected appropriately, meaning the pot is properly mulched. As far as the timing for a repot, I would try to push that off as long as possible. Maples can be successfully repotted, even if the buds have swollen to the point where you can identify the edges of leaves and beyond. After the repot, it would be advisable to prevent the tree from freezing again.

 

[Arbol]

Thanks guys. Glad I don’t have to repot since Utah is notorious for late season freezes.

 

[jevanlewis]

The buds on my maples here in Salt Lake County aren't as big as yours (but, it might not be appropriate to compare bud sizes since my cultivars probably are different than yours). Mine have been buried in the ground and mulched and in shade all winter. I agree with what others said: try to prevent temperature swings by mulching the pot and keeping out of the sun, if possible.

 

[eugenev2]

Some bud swelling example. Was lucky enough to get 3 stages in one picture.

 

[Arbol]

Some bud swelling example. Was lucky enough to get 3 stages in one picture.

Very helpful picture. Thank you!