Dig a planting hole for your maple that is three to four times the width of your tree’s root ball and equal depth. Remove your maple from its container and ensure root moisture. Place your tree in the planting hole, keeping the top of the root ball even with the ground. Spread the roots out evenly and surround them with dirt to avoid air pockets, which can dry out the roots of your tree. Fill a small amount of the soil into the hole to maintain the tree’s upright position, and water thoroughly. Once the water has absorbed into the root ball and surrounding soil, fill the remaining soil into the planting hole. Pack firmly and water a second time.

Generally, we recommend planting in the early spring or fall. But both seasons are fine, as long as there's no threat of frost to freeze the ground.

How to Identify Maple Trees

It's a common misperception that the foliage of all maple trees turns red. Some have a more orange or yellow color, like the Celebration Maple and the October Glory. If you’re looking for bright red foliage, try our Autumn Blaze Red Maple.

Why Do Maple Trees Change Color?

Many are not aware of this, but there are a few factors that come into play when it comes to your foliage turning red. For instance:

• If the weather is too warm, especially at nighttime, the membrane will not grow and the leaves will not turn red.
• If it is not planted in a sunny location, the red fall foliage won’t form.
• If the tree is 3 years old or younger, it is very common to not turn colors right away.
• Too much fertilization. Maples do not need fertilizer right away.
• Poor soil conditions. Getting your soil tested can help in determining why the red color is not producing.