When to Plant Maple Trees?

Maple trees should be planted while dormant.

Maples of many varieties grow wild in forests all over the United States. Also commonly planted by landscapers, maples are known for their distinctly-shaped leaves, brilliant fall color and dense, shady canopy. Like other deciduous trees, maples should be planted while they are dormant. Planting a maple tree at the wrong time can injure the tree, and it may not survive its first year, let alone reach its full potential.

Time Of Year

Like most deciduous trees, maples should be planted during late winter or early spring. The exact timing depends on where you live, but you should get your trees in the ground after the soil has thawed but before buds start to form on the branches. Late fall planting is also an option in some areas, but spring-planted trees tend to have a better chance of survival.

Choose the Right Day

Cool, overcast days with little or no wind are best for planting; do not plant maple trees on a hot or windy day, or while the soil is too wet. The soil should be just moist enough to crumble rather than stick together if you squeeze a handful of it.

Variety & Location

Maples are a large family of trees, so consult with a local expert to help you match the right tree to the conditions in your backyard or landscape. In general, maple trees thrive in cool climates, and grow best in moist, well-drained loam soils with a neutral to slightly acid pH. Most maple trees prefer a sunny location, though some will tolerate part shade.

Considerations

Try to plant your maple trees as quickly as possible after you buy them, ideally no more than a week or two. Trees that come wrapped with soil in burlap can survive out of the ground longer than bare-root trees. While you are planting or transplanting, let the roots of the tree be exposed to the air for no more than a few minutes. Never plant maples or other deciduous trees during the summer; trees planted at this time can be highly stressed and are prone to injury.

References

• North Dakota State University: Transplanting Trees and Shrubs; Marcus Jackson, et al.; 1998
• Purdue University: Planting & Transplanting Landscape Trees and Shrubs; Michael N. Dana, et al.; 2002
• Michigan State University: Tree Planting in Michigan; Douglas Lantagne, et al.
• Maryland Cooperative Extension: Planting Tips For Trees; Raymond V. Bosmans, et al.; 2007
• University of Wisconsin: Sugar Maple; Richard M. Godman, et al.