Q. Where is the best location to plant a Japanese maple?

A. Japanese maple plants, Acer palmatum, are wonderful garden plants if cold-hardy species are selected and they are sited in correct locations. Japanese maples prefer to be planted in moist, well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. They should ideally be planted in a sheltered location to protect them from winter winds and late spring frosts. They are often afflicted by leaf scorch; therefore, they will benefit from some light shade.