Distance Between Maple Tree Planting

Maple trees add to people’s lives in many ways, from their beauty during the autumn into the ability of some species to supply people with food for their tables in the kind of syrup and other products derived from their sap. Depending upon what they are used for, trees must be spaced a certain distance apart in planting time, a figure that is arrived at based on how tall the tree will be at adulthood and how much out its divisions will achieve through growth.

Planting Distance

The recommended planting distance between maple trees is usually 25 feet. This figure considers the way the origins of a few species of maples grow deep while others create shallow roots that grow closer the surface of the dirt. Species like the silver maple, which thrives at U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 3 to 9, are really considered intrusive in some areas, as their origins can interfere with the development of different plants. In this instance, the planting space is provided as a minimum, and it’s wise to plant a silver maple as far away from other trees and structures as possible since their roots can also wreak havoc on concrete walkways and bases.

Maple Tree Propagation

Maple trees create small inconspicuous flowers that are the site of mud creation. They do not pollinate each other however depend on bees to do the job. Once fertilized, the flowers create winged seeds called samara that fall from the trees like little helicopter wings. Planting maple trees closer with the recommended planting space may interfere with pollination and seed production, and also the ground may become filled in samara, many of which will germinate to produce new trees.

Security Distances

Not only should maple trees be planted a specific number of feet apart from each other, but they must also be planted a safe distance from other structures. The Sacramento Tree Board recommends putting red maples at least 6 feet from fences and underground pipes and wiring; 8 feet from walks, driveways and electric transformers mounted on concrete pads; at least 15 feet from buildings, septic systems and swimming pools; and 30 feet from overhead electric power lines.

Factors

Maple trees intended for maple syrup production ought to be planted 30 feet apart in all directions, says the University of Idaho College of Natural Resources. Sap production is greatest in trees grown from the open where the trees can develop large tops or canopies. At this time, an acre of land can safely encourage 50 to 60 trees. Grown for their timber, maples can be grown as closely as 14 feet apart on all sides, as this promotes the tips of new divisions to fork, creating denser, more compact divisions.

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