So, you’ve finally picked out the perfect variety! I bet you’re already dreaming about that gorgeous, picturesque canopy adding a pop of color to your yard. But before we get to the lounging-in-the-shade part, we have to get the planting right. While maples aren’t divas, they do have a few specific preferences you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure they thrive.
When to Plant
The best times to get your maple in the ground are spring and fall. The temperatures are mild, and Mother Nature usually helps out with the watering thanks to seasonal rain. If you’ve chosen a native species or one that is exceptionally cold-hardy, I actually recommend planting in the fall. This gives the tree plenty of time to establish its roots before the spring growing season kicks into high gear.
However, if you’re falling in love with Asian varieties, keep in mind they can be a bit more sensitive to frost. For those, a spring planting is usually the safer bet. The same rules apply if you’re growing your maple in a pot.
The Perfect Spot
With maples, it’s not just about survival—it’s about that show-stopping foliage! If your tree is tucked away in too much shade, those colors will look pretty dull. On the flip side, harsh midday sun can actually scorch the foliage, leading to those dreaded brown leaves.
- Aim for a spot with full sun to partial shade.
- Ideally, it should get about six hours of sun a day (morning sun is best!).
- Look for a spot that’s airy but protected from strong winds.
- The soil should be loose, well-draining, and rich in organic matter.
- Japanese and Fullmoon maples love slightly acidic soil (pH 5–6.5).
- Hedge maples, on the other hand, prefer soil with a bit of lime.
Pro Tip:
Maples are shallow-rooted trees, meaning their roots spread out wide rather than deep. They hate having the ground above them “sealed” off, so try to plant them a good distance away from paved driveways or patios.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Unless you’re propagating maples yourself, try to buy your tree right before you’re ready to plant.
- Give the root ball a good, long soak while it’s still in its container.
- Dig a hole that is two to four times wider and deeper than the root ball.
- To help the roots spread easily, loosen the soil at the bottom and sides of the hole.
- Mix your excavated soil with mature compost (a 2:1 ratio works great).
- Set the maple in straight and gently firm the soil down with your foot.
- To keep it steady, drive three long stakes about half a meter deep into the ground, roughly 30 cm away from the trunk. Secure the tree to the stakes.
- Connect the stakes with coconut fiber rope or cross-slats for extra stability.
- Give it a deep watering and create a “watering ring” (a small mound of soil around the base) to help hold water while the tree gets established.
Note:
Always remove the plastic pot before planting. However, if the root ball is wrapped in organic burlap, you can leave it on! It won’t hurt the tree and will eventually rot away. Just make sure to untie or open the top of the burlap once the tree is sitting in the hole.
Moving Your Tree
Because maples have such an extensive root system, they don’t handle being moved very well once they’re settled. If you realize the location isn’t working out, try to transplant your maple within its first five years. After that, it becomes much riskier for the tree.
