How to Plant a Maple Tree

Discover the proper way to plant your very own maple trees.

There are many advantages to planting maple trees. There’s so many different types to choose from, ranging from Sugar Maples to Japanese Maples. You’ll have beautiful trees, and you can make your own maple syrup.

If you’ve decided you want to start planting maple trees, first you need to know when to actually start planting. You can plant maple trees in the spring or fall, but fall is the best time.

The cooler weather and rainfall are great for helping the tree get used to its new home. The cold weather also allows your trees to grow without the added stress of growing new leaves or fruit.

Once you’re ready to begin planting your trees, follow these five steps from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Step 1

Pick a good spot to plant the maple tree. Make sure there are no power lines, buildings, or other trees that will obstruct the growth.

If you plan on planting multiple trees, measure a distance of at least 25 feet between planting areas. Maple tree roots can grow to be quite large.

Step 2

Before you start planting, test the native soil. Dig a 1′ x 1′ x 1′ test hole. Fill the hole with water. Check back on the hole in about an hour. If the water is still sitting there, the soil is poorly-drained.

If this happens, only dig the hole for your tree two-thirds the size of the root ball. Then, pile on dirt before you mulch.

This will help to prevent the root ball from drowning in the water.

Step 3

If you have well-drained soil, dig a planting hole that is as deep as the root ball and two to four feet wider than it.

Spread the roots out evenly.

Step 4

Hold the trunk steady and straight as you fill the hole with soil.

Tap down the topsoil with your feet to remove air pockets under the surface.

Continue adding topsoil until it’s even with the base of the maple sapling.

Step 5

Add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, in a volcano shape. This creates a protective barrier around the tree and helps lock in moisture.

Water the sapling until the soil is moist.

As your maple trees get bigger, it’s important to take care of them. Pruning your maple trees will help promote growth and fight off maple tree diseases.

For more information on caring for maple trees, visit our Maple Syruping Blog.