Sugar Maple (acer saccharum)

• Large, long-lived deciduous tree with attractive upright form and dense canopy, ideal as a specimen or shade tree in larger gardens/parks.
• Excellent autumn colour (yellows, oranges and reds – often less intense in the milder UK climate than in its native North America).
• Potential for maple syrup production from the sap; also valued for timber and as a wildlife/bee plant.
• Hardy across most of the UK.

Planting advice

• Prefers a moist but well-drained soil (loam preferred; tolerates a range of types including clay/sand if drainage is good). Avoid waterlogged, compacted or very dry sites. 
• Full sun for best autumn colour (tolerates partial shade).
• Allow ample space: mature height typically 15–25 m+, with a wide spread and shallow, spreading roots (plant at least 7 m from buildings). Sensitive to road salt and pollution, 
• Timing: Plant while fully dormant, November to early March. Avoid frozen or waterlogged ground.
• Preparation: On arrival, keep roots moist and out of sun/wind.
• Hole: Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root spread but no deeper than the root collar/nursery soil mark. Loosen compacted sides with a fork.
• Planting: Position so the root flare sits at or just above soil level. Spread roots outwards naturally. Backfill with the excavated soil (optionally mix in some organic matter on poor soils), firming gently to eliminate air pockets.
• Finish: Water thoroughly to settle the soil. Stake if exposed/windy (short stake driven in before planting, low tie). Apply 5–8 cm organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk.

Aftercare

• Water regularly (especially in the first 1–2 growing seasons) during dry spells.
• Keep the base weed-free.
• Prune only if necessary while dormant (November–January) to avoid sap bleeding.
• Protect young trees from rabbits/deer if needed.