Images Depict Mature Plants
October Glory Maple
Acer rubrum 'October Glory' (PNI 0268)
October Glory Maple trees are renowned for their brilliant red and orange fall foliage, fast growth, and low-maintenance beauty throughout the seasons. Ideal for shade, specimen planting, and street trees, they provide vibrant color, wildlife support, and a classic upright form that enhances any residential or commercial landscape.
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October Glory Maple Trees
The October Glory Maple (Acer rubrum 'October Glory') is a standout ornamental tree prized for its brilliant fall color, vigorous growth, and adaptability to a wide range of landscapes. This fast-growing red maple cultivar puts on a dazzling display in autumn, when its lush green summer foliage transforms into vibrant shades of crimson and orange-red, often lingering on the branches longer than other maples. Its oval canopy and upright branching create a uniform, symmetrical shape, making it ideal for shade, specimen planting, or street-side use.
Reaching heights of 40 to 50 feet with a spread of 30 to 40 feet, the October Glory Maple is a superb choice for adding vertical interest and seasonal drama to the garden. It performs best in full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soil, though it can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and urban conditions. Once established, it offers moderate drought resistance and requires little maintenance, aside from occasional pruning to maintain form.
Whether planted as a standalone focal point or in a row along a driveway or property line, the October Glory Maple offers year-round interest—from its attractive bark and branching pattern in winter to its dense, leafy canopy in summer and its unmatched fall foliage. This dependable tree not only enhances curb appeal but also attracts native birds and supports local ecosystems, making it a smart and sustainable addition to your landscape.
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-9 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 40 to 50 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 25 to 30 Feet |
| Classification: | Broad leaved deciduous tree, shade tree |
| Sunlight: | Full sun |
| Habit: | Upright |
| Foliage: | Dark green, brilliant orange to deep red in fall |
| Flower Color: | Inconspicuous, red |
| Pruning Season: | No maintenance pruning needed |
| Soil Condition: | Any well drained soil, acidic |
| Water Requirements: | Water well until established, then drought tolerant |
| Uses: | Specimen, focal point, shade tree, fall interest. |
How to Care for October Glory Maple
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy October Glory Maple Trees for years to come!
How do I plant an October Glory Maple Tree?
Planting an October Glory Maple Tree begins with selecting the right location—this fast-growing shade tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and needs plenty of space to reach its mature height of 40 to 50 feet with a 30 to 40-foot spread. Choose a spot with well-drained, slightly acidic soil, and avoid areas prone to standing water. To plant, dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. Loosen the soil at the bottom and gently place the tree so the root flare (where the trunk starts to widen) sits slightly above ground level. Backfill with the original soil, tamping down lightly to eliminate air pockets, and water thoroughly after planting. After planting, apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base—keeping it a few inches away from the trunk—to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if it's in a windy area or if the root ball feels unstable, but be sure to remove the stakes after one growing season to encourage strong trunk development. The October Glory Maple’s adaptability to urban conditions, clay soils, and wet sites makes it a favorite for both residential yards and commercial landscapes. With proper planting and care, your October Glory Maple will reward you with stunning fall color and lush summer shade for decades to come.
How do I water October Glory Maple Trees?
Watering an October Glory Maple Tree properly is essential for healthy establishment and long-term growth. During the first year after planting, water your tree deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil type. Be sure to soak the soil around the root zone to encourage deep root development, which helps the tree withstand periods of drought later. Use a slow trickle from a hose or a soaker hose for best results, and always water early in the morning or late in the day to minimize evaporation. Once established—typically after the second growing season—your October Glory Maple becomes more drought-tolerant but will still benefit from supplemental watering during extended dry spells. In especially hot or dry climates, continue to provide deep, infrequent watering every 7 to 10 days. Avoid shallow or frequent watering, which can promote weak surface roots. Regular watering during dry periods will help the tree maintain its lush green summer foliage and support a vibrant fall color display, ensuring this popular red maple remains a stunning feature in your landscape.
How do I fertilize October Glory Maple Trees?
Fertilizing an October Glory Maple Tree helps support its fast growth, vibrant foliage, and overall health. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer with a formulation like 10-10-10 or 12-6-6 in early spring, just as the tree begins to break dormancy. This ensures a steady supply of nutrients during the critical growth period. Distribute the fertilizer evenly around the drip line (the area beneath the outermost branches), avoiding direct contact with the trunk. Water deeply after fertilizing to help the nutrients soak into the soil and reach the root system efficiently. For mature October Glory Maple trees, one feeding per year is typically sufficient, although trees in poor or depleted soils may benefit from a second application in late fall. If you notice slow growth, pale foliage, or early leaf drop, these may be signs that your maple needs additional nutrients. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that encourage excessive leaf growth at the expense of fall color. Proper fertilization not only fuels healthy development but also enhances the tree’s brilliant red-orange fall display, making it a reliable and eye-catching feature in your landscape.
How and When should I Prune an October Glory Maple Tree?
Pruning an October Glory Maple Tree should be done in late winter to early spring, before new growth begins. This timing allows you to clearly see the tree’s structure while minimizing stress and sap loss. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, followed by those that cross or rub against each other. It's also important to thin out congested areas to improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy. Always make clean cuts just outside the branch collar to support proper healing. When shaping your October Glory Maple, aim to maintain its naturally symmetrical, oval form. Avoid heavy or drastic pruning, which can weaken the tree or spoil its graceful appearance. If necessary, remove low-growing limbs to allow clearance for walkways or lawn maintenance. Annual light pruning will help promote a strong branch structure, reduce the risk of breakage, and enhance the tree's overall health and spectacular red-orange fall color. With regular care, your October Glory Maple will remain a stunning, long-lasting focal point in your landscape.
