yes you can. but make sure the hole is twice the size of the pot. Mix the soil with some of the same compost that it is potted in. then gently tease out the surface roots so they get out and grow into the new soil, back fill and firm. water well.

if the weather is very hot and dry water a lot.

welcome to GoY too :o)

I would wait for it to go dormant - Sept/Oct.

Japanese Acers need acid soil. Is your garden soil acid?

Although Acers do prefer acid soil, they will still be alright in neutral/alkaline (which is what we have). I water mine with Sequestrine in the growing season, which helps.

Hi, welcome to GoY, in my experience Acers just need a fertile, moist but well drained soil, in full sun to partial shade, and cultivars of A palmatum need to be sheltered from cold winds and late frosts which can kill the young foliage, they will be a lot happier in the ground, rather than pots, just follow Seaburngirl's advice above, Derek.

many thanks for all the replies to my question, I will take on board all your advice and keep you informed on the outcome.