The Globe Maple (Kugelahorn) is a fantastic addition to any backyard, thanks to its compact size and low-maintenance personality. But if you want your tree to thrive for years to come, getting it off to a good start is key.
Where’s the best spot to plant a Globe Maple?
To keep your Globe Maple growing strong, you’ll want to pick a spot with full sun or partial shade. This is especially important as the tree gets older—mature Globe Maples really don’t like the shade. If it’s tucked away in a dark corner, the tree will lose its vigor and become much more prone to diseases.
Keep in mind that these trees have shallow roots that can sometimes peek through the surface. Because of this, make sure to give it plenty of space away from walls, sidewalks, and your home’s foundation. Also, keep your expectations in check when it comes to underplanting; only a few hardy perennials can handle the lack of light and root competition under that dense canopy.
What kind of soil does it need?
The good news is that Globe Maples aren’t very picky about their dirt. As long as you avoid extremely acidic, swampy, or boggy ground, your standard garden soil should do just fine. However, if you want to give your tree the “VIP treatment,” aim for soil that is:
- Sandy-loamy to loamy-clay
- Well-draining
- Slightly alkaline (chalky)
- Free of standing water
How to plant your Globe Maple the right way
You can plant a Globe Maple any time of year as long as the ground isn’t frozen. To make sure your new tree settles in perfectly, just follow these simple steps:
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.
- Place the root ball in a bucket of water and let it soak until you stop seeing air bubbles rise to the surface.
- While the tree is soaking, mix your excavated soil with about 3.5 ounces (100g) of horn shavings and one-third compost.
- Set the tree in the center of the hole. Make sure it sits at the same depth it was in its original container.
- Fill the hole back up with your enriched soil mix.
- Give it a very generous watering right over the root area.
For the first few weeks, keeping your tree well-hydrated is crucial. I recommend building a small soil ring (a watering basin) around the base of the tree to ensure the water stays right where the roots need it instead of running off into the rest of the yard.
