Images Depict Mature Plants
Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum
Sugar maple trees are prized for the ornamental beauty the exude into a landscape. Enjoy striking fall color, paired with wildlife and ecological benefits...not to mention maple syrup!
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Sugar Maple Trees for Sale Online
Coined one of America's 'most-loved trees,' the Sugar Maple is a staple to landscapes across North America. According to arborday.org, the Sugar Maple has been deemed the state tree across the US more than any other species. This sweet tree gets its name as a tribute to its sweet sap, which is refined into a breakfast condiment that many of us know and love: maple syrup!
Beyond its sweet nectar, you will enjoy the tree's vibrant green leaves in spring. However, what's most awaited is its transition to fall, when it sports brilliant hues of yellows, reds, and oranges. Reaching a mature height between 60 and 75 feet, the Sugar Maple is sure to make a statement in your yard this season and every season to follow!
This Midwest native is also beloved for its shade coverage in the sweltering summer heat! Hardy to USDA zones 4-8, the Sugar Maple grows best in moist, well-drained soils and full sun. Sugar maples are commonly found in mixed hardwood forests in the eastern United States. The long-lived trees work beautifully as specimen trees in yards, parks, and along boulevards.
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-8 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 60 to 80 feet |
| Mature Width: | 40 to 50 feet |
| Classification: | Deciduous tree, shade tree |
| Sunlight: | Full sun to part sun |
| Habit: | Upright |
| Foliage: | Dark green, brilliant orange to reddish fall color |
| Flower Color: | Inconspicuous |
| Pruning Season: | No pruning needed |
| Soil Condition | Any well drained soil |
| Water Requirements: | Water well until established |
| Uses: | Tolerates moist soil and full sun. Full sun brings out the best fall color. Will adapt to drier sites |
How to Care for Sugar Maple
Be sure to read our planting instructions to ensure a healthy and happy Sugar Maple for years to come!
How do I Plant Sugar Maple Trees?
To plant a Sugar Maple tree, start by choosing a sunny location with well-draining soil, as this tree thrives in full sun and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Begin by digging a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the tree. This allows the roots to spread out easily and establish themselves more quickly. Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground, then backfill with the native soil. Water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets and help the tree settle. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the tree helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. After planting, water the Sugar Maple regularly during the first growing season to establish a healthy root system. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during hot or dry periods. Once established, this tree is relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. Make sure to stake the young tree if it is in a windy location, providing stability as it grows. Space Sugar Maple trees at least 20 to 30 feet apart to allow ample room for their mature size, which can reach 40 to 50 feet tall and wide. Proper planting and initial care will ensure your Sugar Maple grows into a beautiful, vibrant shade tree, adding value and stunning seasonal color to your landscape.
How do I water Sugar Maple Trees?
Watering Sugar Maple trees properly is crucial, especially during their first few years, to establish a strong root system. During the first growing season, water the tree deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil moisture, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper, which leads to a more drought-tolerant tree in the future. To do this, use a soaker hose or let a garden hose run slowly at the base of the tree for about 30 minutes, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil. A 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base will help retain moisture, but keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. After the first couple of years, Sugar Maple trees become more drought-tolerant, but they still benefit from consistent moisture, especially during prolonged dry spells. Watering once every week or two should suffice, depending on the weather conditions. During hot, dry summers, ensure that the tree receives deep watering to maintain its health and promote vigorous growth. The key is to avoid shallow, frequent watering, as this can lead to surface root growth rather than deep roots, making the tree more susceptible to drought stress. By following these watering guidelines, you’ll ensure that your Sugar Maple tree remains healthy and vibrant, showcasing its beautiful red foliage each fall.
How do I fertilize Sugar Maple Trees?
To fertilize Sugar Maple trees effectively, start by applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, just as new growth begins. A fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10 or 16-4-8 works well, providing essential nutrients for strong root development, vibrant leaf growth, and overall tree health. Spread the fertilizer evenly over the root zone, avoiding direct contact with the trunk, to prevent damage. Water thoroughly after fertilizing to help the nutrients soak into the soil and reach the roots. If your soil is lacking in specific nutrients, a soil test can help determine if additional amendments, such as iron or magnesium, are needed for optimal tree health. For young Sugar Maple trees, fertilizing once a year in spring will encourage healthy growth and establish a strong foundation. As the tree matures, you may only need to fertilize every two to three years, especially if it is growing in nutrient-rich soil. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can promote weak, leggy growth and make the tree more susceptible to pests and disease. Organic options, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can also be used to enrich the soil and provide a slow release of nutrients throughout the growing season. Proper fertilization ensures your Sugar Maple tree grows vigorously, produces lush green leaves in summer, and showcases brilliant red foliage in the fall, adding beauty and value to your landscape.
How do I prune Sugar Maple Trees?
Pruning Sugar Maple trees is an important step to ensure healthy growth, maintain a strong structure, and encourage vibrant foliage. The best time to prune your Sugar Maple is in late winter or early spring, while the tree is still dormant and before new growth begins. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches that could create wounds and invite disease. It’s also important to trim away branches growing towards the center of the tree to promote better air circulation and light penetration throughout the canopy. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to make smooth cuts, which will help the tree heal more efficiently. To maintain the shape and size of your Sugar Maple, focus on selective thinning rather than drastic cutting. Remove no more than 20% of the tree's branches in a single year to avoid stress. Additionally, prune any suckers or water sprouts growing at the base of the trunk or along major branches, as these can divert energy away from the main growth. Regular pruning helps maintain a well-balanced canopy, which not only enhances the tree's aesthetic appeal but also reduces the risk of storm damage. With proper pruning, your Sugar Maple will develop a strong structure, ensuring that it grows into a healthy, beautiful tree that offers shade in the summer and stunning red foliage in the fall.
