Red Maple Tree

The Red Maple Tree is a majestic deciduous tree known for its stunning red to scarlet foliage in the fall. This robust species reaches 40-60 feet in height and spreads 30-40 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for large landscapes and parks. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, from wet to dry, and provides year-round interest with its vibrant color changes. To care for this tree, plant it in full sun to partial shade and ensure it receives regular watering, especially during dry periods. Its sap is also used in the production of maple syrup, though less commonly than its cousin, the Sugar Maple. Native Americans used the inner bark of the Red Maple for medicinal purposes and as a source of fiber for making ropes and mats.

Also Known As: Red Maple, Acer Rubrum, Swamp Maple, Scarlet Maple, Soft Maple, Water Maple, Silver Maple, Red Acer, Black Maple, Autumn Maple.

Plant Name:	Tree, Northern Red Maple
Latin Name:	Acer rubrum
Days to Germinate:	14-28
Days to Bloom:	4 - 8 Years
Plant Height:	40 - 60 Feet
Spread:	30 - 40 Feet
Growth Habit:	Upright
USDA Zones:	3-8
Lifespan:	Perennial
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose a clear, sunny location that is not in the shade of other trees and receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Trees establish roots better in sandy, well-drained soils rather than heavy, poorly drained soil. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 6-8 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage. Optionally, either form rows of soil beds or hills 4-6 inches high and at least 30 feet apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage, ensure good airflow, and make harvesting or maintenance easier.

Planting:

Starting Indoors: Seeds require cold, moist stratification to break dormancy. Soak seeds in room-temperature tap water for 24 hours, prior to stratification. To stratify, roll seeds in a damp paper towel and place in a resealable bag. Place the bag in the refrigerator to keep seeds at 35F-40F for 30 days, mimicking winter conditions. After the stratification period, seeds should be ready to germinate. To germinate seeds, place the bags in a warm 70F-90F area. After 10 days, plant the seeds in small pots with moist potting soil and in a warm, sunny location that is at least 65F, about 1 month before the last expected frost in spring. Keep the soil moist, allowing the top inch of soil to dry in between waterings.

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves and are at least 6 inches in height, harden off seedlings then transplant outdoors in the spring, in a sunny location when temperatures are consistently above 60F. To transplant seedlings, prepare a transplant hole outdoors in a sunny, permanent location. Remove the plants carefully from the pots or flats and set them in the transplant holes, burying some of the stem in the ground. Pack the soil loosely around the plant and leave a slightly sunken area around each plant to hold water. Water the plants after transplanting.

Directly Sowing: If directly sowing outdoors, plant seeds in late summer to naturally cold-stratify seeds. Soak seeds 24 hours in tap water prior to sowing. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 30-40 feet apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1 seed per hole, then cover thinly with soil. Seedbeds can be covered with plastic film to promote germination. Water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	30-40 feet
Between-Row Spacing:	40 feet

Care During the Season:

Red Maple Trees prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, control weeds, and protect the root system from temperature extremes. While Red Maples are generally low-maintenance, pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and promote a strong structure. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer in early spring can support vigorous growth, but be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to weak growth. Regularly monitor the tree for signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies to keep it healthy throughout the growing season.