Sugar Maple

Common Name
Sugar Maple
Type
Hardwood
Hardness Rating
Janka Hardness Scale -------------------------------- Hickory/Pecan 1820 -------------------------------- Locust 1700 -------------------------------- Hard Maple 1450 -------------------------------- White Oak 1360 -------------------------------- Red Oak 1290 -------------------------------- Black Walnut 1010 -------------------------------- Cherry 950
1450
Sun
Full
Water
Occasional
Height ft
80
Spread ft
60
Bloom Color
N/A
Bloom Time
N/A
Fruits
N/A
Fruit Color
N/A
Attracts
Types of Insects, Birds & Animals this attracts

Facts

Native to North America, sugar maple trees are best planted in early fall. They'll grow slowly but steadily, adding around 24 inches a year and reaching maturity after 30 to 40 years

Uses

Used to make Maple Syrup. The wood is highly sought after for it's timber

Planting

Sugar maple trees are best planted in a spot that receives full sun. Because they are often the largest specimen in the landscape (or will eventually be), it's unlikely that they will remain in partial shade for long unless they're in a forest environment. Still, they can survive in partial shade as well, as long as they get at least four to six hours of direct sunlight a day.

Sugar maple trees can thrive in a variety of different soil conditions, they'll do best in a mixture that is rich in organic matter, well-drained, and very deep. Because the tree will eventually get very large, it's important to plant it in a spot that will allow its roots to grow uninhibited. Sugar maple trees will grow best in soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH level between 5.5 to 6.8

As you may suspect, the exact water needs of the sugar maple tree depends on how big it is at that stage of its life. Consistent watering is especially important as the tree is getting established in your landscape—about one to two times a week generally works best. Beyond that, you can expect your sugar maple tree to need around five gallons or more of water a week. While it may be hard to tell if such a large specimen is getting enough water, you can look to clues like browning or wilting leaves as an indication that the plant needs more water.

Disease

Potential diseases include root rot, sapstreak, tar spot, powdery mildew, verticillium wilt, and lichen.

Pests

Potential pests include aphids, maple leaf-cutter, and sapsuckers

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