Maple Trees
Maple Trees are one of the most commonly identifiable trees in America. With their large broad spreading leaves and magnificent choice of foliage fall colors, Maples are popular choices when seeking a tree which will provide all year round splendor, and classic informal design. Due to their vigorous rates of growth, Maples are often the decided choice where privacy or shade is an admirable quality in a tree.
It is also common to see varying types of Maples planted together. This is because most types of Maple grow in a similar shape and style, and the colors compliment one another and can be grown into an attractive fall display with colors ranging from deep reds to vibrant orange.
Common Maple Trees
Autumn Blaze Maple leaves are one of the most vibrant of all foliage colors. This is especially significant as Maples are known for their splendid color. The Autumn Blaze Maple is widely considered the most exquisite. In the fall the Autumn Blaze Maple has a vivid display of bright red color that is the best of any tree in north Texas.
The October Glory Maple is also widely grown as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens, except where soils are too alkaline or salty. In parts of the Pacific Northwest, it is one of the most commonly introduced trees. Similarly, most all Maples can be frequently found in many parks and gardens, as well as in churchyards and other public places. They are known for their classic tree like shape.
Caring For Your Maple Trees
Over most of its range, the Maple tree is adaptable to a very wide range of site conditions, perhaps more so than any other tree in eastern North America. It can be found growing in swamps, on poor dry soils, and most anywhere in between. It grows well from sea level to about 3,000 ft and is best watered on a ‘as needed to’ basis. Many Maple trees however do not appreciate acidic soil and should be planted in a neutral or alkaline fertilizer accordingly.
Many Maples have a low root system which can be invasive and therefore make it a poor choice for plantings near paving. Maples also attract squirrels, who eat their buds in the early spring, although squirrels prefer larger buds. Maples can adapt easily to a wide range of soil conditions and are insect-resistant, pollution-resistant and disease-resistant. They last a long time and make for good resilient trees when cared for correctly.
