Large Maple
I decided to start with Maple because it is probably the most common shade tree anywhere in the US. They are top performers and live long if you pick a species that is best for your zone, or climate. They are typically easy to care for and are absolutely
beautiful in the fall. Maples are one of the most easily recognizable trees, with very distinctive leaves. Almost anyone can tell a maple from another kind of tree.
Zones: 3-9
Type: Deciduous
Light: Full sun to part shade depending on the species
Size: 50-100 ft.tall, 30-60 ft. wide
Form: Rounded and spreading
Growth rate: Moderate
Planting and Care
Plant large maples in moist, fertile, well drained soil with lot and lots of organic matter. Make sure it will have plenty of room to grow, remember they can get very big. Avoid planting near foundations and sidewalks. Their shallow roots can buckle concrete and pavement. Also they hate salt and pollution, (as do all trees) so plant away from roads and areas you’ll need to treat in the winter. You’ll need to water regularly for the first couple of years, and after that water during dry spells.
Good Eggs and Bad Eggs
Some of the top performers are Red Maple, which grows quickly and is very colorful in the fall, and Sugar Maple which is slightly more tolerant of urban conditions. Some maples to avoid are Silver Maple, which is popular but has weak wood and a branching pattern that makes it prone to damage in high winds and storms. Also Norway Maple is actually considered a weed in some parts of the country due to it’s aggressive nature and the fact that its shade is so dense it does not allow plants or grass to grow under it.
Tid Bits
Some of the advantages of maple’s it that certain species are harvested for that wonderful breakfast accessory that goes so well with waffles and hotcakes!
sources: Taylor’s 50 Best Trees
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Sep 7, 2007 at 4:06 am
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