Sugar Maple — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Acer saccharum |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 30–90 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 7.2–15.6 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 5475–10950 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 1219.2–1828.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 1524–2438.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 1066.8–1524 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–8 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Transplant balled-and-burlapped or container stock in early fall or early spring into deep, well-drained soil away from road salt and compacted urban sites, since sugar maple is sensitive to both. This long-lived tree develops a dense, rounded crown prized for the brilliant orange and scarlet fall color that defines much of the eastern hardwood forest, and mature stands are the traditional source of maple syrup sap. It provides excellent shade for large residential and park settings but needs consistent moisture during establishment and should be kept out of confined urban tree pits. Give it room to grow undisturbed for decades, as it is intolerant of heavy pruning and soil disturbance near its roots.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0