Bare Root Shade & Ornamental Trees

Sugar Maple

Acer saccharum

Starting at$0.70

Available options

2–3 ft. / S.

$1.75 - $2.10
$2.10 each

2–3 ft. / S.

1-99 items$2.10 each
100-999 items$1.95 each
1000+ items$1.75 each

3–4 ft. / S.

$3.00 - $3.50
$3.50 each

3–4 ft. / S.

1-99 items$3.50 each
100-999 items$3.25 each
1000+ items$3.00 each

6–12 in. / S.

$0.70 - $0.80
$0.80 each

6–12 in. / S.

1-999 items$0.80 each
1000+ items$0.70 each

12–18 in. / S.

$0.80 - $0.95
$0.95 each

12–18 in. / S.

1-999 items$0.95 each
1000+ items$0.80 each

18–24 in. / S.

$1.00 - $1.25
$1.25 each

18–24 in. / S.

1-999 items$1.25 each
1000+ items$1.00 each

About this plant

Sugar Maple is a long-lived, large deciduous tree valued for dense summer shade, attractive form, and brilliant fall color. This bare-root tree typically reaches 70–80 feet tall at maturity.

  • USDA hardiness3-8
  • LightFull sun to partial shade; best growth and fall color generally occur with several hours of direct sunlight.
  • WaterWater deeply and regularly during establishment. Once established, provide supplemental water during prolonged dry periods.
  • SoilMoist, well-drained, fertile soil with good organic matter. Avoid poorly drained or chronically dry sites.
  • Mature height840–960 in.
  • Growth habitUpright, rounded canopy
  • Growth rateSlow to medium

Landscape uses

Large shade tree for lawns, parks, campuses, streetscapes, and spacious residential landscapes.

Planting schedule

Plant bare-root trees while dormant, from late fall through early spring, when the soil is workable and the ground is not frozen.

How to plant

Keep roots moist until planting. Dig a broad hole, set the tree with the root flare at or slightly above soil level, spread the roots naturally, and backfill with native soil. Water thoroughly and apply a 2–3-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Care guide

Water consistently during the first growing seasons, keep competing turf and weeds away from the root zone, and maintain mulch. Avoid piling soil or mulch against the trunk.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or during dormancy to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches and establish a strong structure. Avoid unnecessary heavy pruning.

Common problems

Potential issues include leaf scorch during drought, girdling roots, and common insect or fungal pests affecting stressed trees.

Seasonal care

  • Spring: Plant dormant bare-root trees early in the season, water deeply, and replenish mulch as needed.
  • Summer: Water during extended heat or drought, especially while the tree is becoming established, and monitor foliage for stress.
  • Fall: Enjoy the fall color, maintain even soil moisture, and remove damaged or crossing branches during dormancy if needed.
  • Winter: Protect the root zone with mulch and inspect the trunk and branches after severe weather.

Frequently asked questions

How large does Sugar Maple become?

Sugar Maple typically reaches 70–80 feet tall at maturity and develops a broad, rounded canopy.

When should I plant a bare-root Sugar Maple?

Plant it while dormant, from late fall through early spring, as long as the soil is workable and not frozen.

What fall color does Sugar Maple provide?

Its green, five-lobed leaves typically turn yellow, orange, and red in fall.

How should I water a newly planted Sugar Maple?

Water deeply and consistently during the first growing seasons, then provide supplemental water during prolonged dry periods.

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