Green Mountain Sugar Maple Growth Rate

Identification

• “Green Mountain” sugar maples are adapted to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3a through 8a. Although they have good fall color in every zone, color tends to be more brilliant in colder areas, with oranges and reds predominating, while in warmer areas it is just yellow. Uninteresting yellowish-green flowers form in springtime, usually around April. Star-shaped green leaves cover the tree from spring to fall, and can be anywhere from 2 to 8 inches in length.

Growth Rate

• “Green Mountain” is a rapidly establishing tree, usually growing a foot a year from the time it is planted until it reaches maturity. In the home garden, this usually means heights of 40 to 60 feet, with an eventual spread of 25 to 40 feet. The symmetrical, oval shape of its crown makes it an attractive landscape tree, and strong branches with thick crotches make it resistant to breakage.

Culture

• “Green Mountain” sugar maples prefer well-drained, fertile soils with medium amounts of moisture. Once established, trees are moderately drought-resistant, but generally grow poorly in dry or compacted soils. It is a shade-tolerant tree, but grows best in sites that receive full sun. It also tolerates a range of soil types, from sand to loam to clay, acidic to alkaline. Because “Green Mountain” has been bred to grow a thick, tall trunk and strong branches, there is little need to prune it.

Garden Uses

• Its densely growing foliage recommends the “Green Mountain” sugar maple as a shade tree in both urban and rural landscapes. It does well on wide-open areas, such as lawns, where it can be enjoyed both for its thick summer leaves and its beautiful fall foliage. Although it works well as a street tree, in areas where its roots are restricted it will not grow as well. The tree is also sensitive to reflected light and to heat, both of which will slow its growth rate.