The Sweetgum tree (Liquidambar) is a total showstopper in any yard, mostly thanks to that jaw-dropping fall foliage. But if you want your tree to really thrive, you’ve got to get the location just right—this beauty can be a bit high-maintenance when it comes to its living conditions.
Sunny and Hydrated
Meeting a Sweetgum’s demands isn’t always a walk in the park. First off, it absolutely craves a spot with full sun. If you tuck it away in partial shade, it’ll struggle, and in full shade, it basically stops growing altogether. This is why it’s the perfect choice for a standalone “specimen tree” in your landscape.
When you plant your Sweetgum, make sure it’s not too close to the house. These guys can reach heights of up to 65 feet, and you might not want that massive canopy casting a shadow over your windows a few years down the road.
Here’s the tricky part: while Sweetgums love soaking up the rays, they absolutely hate “dry feet.” Full-sun spots tend to dry out fast, which can be a problem. You’ll need to be diligent about watering, especially with young trees during those scorching summer months.
Keep it Out of the Wind
A sunny spot is often an open spot, which leaves the tree vulnerable to the wind. While the wind won’t necessarily hurt the tree’s health during the summer, a gusty location will blow those gorgeous leaves off way too early. You don’t want to miss out on that famous fall color just because of a windstorm!
It’s a great idea to plant your tree where other structures or distant hedges act as a windbreak. If you don’t mind a little shade on your siding, planting it near the house can actually help; the tree stays protected and even benefits from the “radiant heat” the walls soak up during the day.
Since Sweetgums are typically grown as high-standard trees (with a long, clear trunk), they can be prone to wind damage if they’re left totally exposed to the elements.
Occasional Pruning
The best part about the Sweetgum? You rarely have to pick up the shears. However, if your sunny spot is a bit cramped for space, the tree will definitely benefit from regular pruning.
Trimming it back helps keep the size manageable. By thinning out the crown every now and then, you can keep the shape nice and compact without losing any of that natural charm.
