Sugar Maple Tree

With its sturdy, single trunk and rounded canopy reaching 45 feet, it is a good choice for large areas where it will provide shade. The sugar maple is an easy-care addition to the landscape where space permits and root spread is not limited.

Growth Habits

In spring, the sugar maple tree produces clusters of greenish-yellow flowers. Once these flowers fall, large, five-pointed, glossy green leaves will fill the tree in spring and summer, providing dense shade.

In fall, these leaves turn a bright golden or orange-red color. The trees have a moderate rate of growth. Its root system can spread 30 feet from the edge of the canopy.

This extensive root system stays near the soil surface, and can create problems for other plantings nearby. These trees are drought tolerant once established.

Growing Conditions

The sugar maple tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It will thrive under the canopy of larger trees in a naturalized setting or cast shade on an open area of landscape in full sun.

It prefers well-drained soil, but adapts to a variety of soil types, except swamp, sandy or rocky areas.

Planting

Smaller trees are easier to handle and get established faster once planted, since they retain most of their roots.

Look for a tree with a straight trunk that flares at the base. Branches should be widely spaced, not tight, and the majority should be near the top of the tree.

Plant this tree in spring as soon as the ground is warm enough to work. Dig a hole twice as deep and wide as the plant's container.

Loosen the soil around the roots of the tree and sit it in the center of the hole. Spread the roots outward and backfill the hole.

Water well to remove air pockets and settle the tree. Apply a three-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and keeps down weeds. Take care when mowing and weeding to prevent damage to the trunk.

Pruning

After autumn leaves fall, clean away build-up of leaves to prevent fungus and to open the roots up to air.

At this time, you will also be able to see any damaged or dead branches. Prune only these limbs and nothing else at this time.

In late winter to early spring, prune young branches by making cuts ½ inch above a lower branch or dormant bud. Large, older branches can be cut back to just above the collar near the main trunk.

The sugar maple tree offers beautiful foliage spring through fall and shade in summer. It is a majestic, low-maintenance tree that enhances any landscape.