Maintenance Landscaping Design

Acer rubrum is a beautiful, deciduous plant native to North America. It is also known as the red maple or the swamp maple. The plant is characterized by its deeply lobed leaves and its bright red flowers. The plant grows to a height of 60 feet and has a spread of 40 feet.

Also called

• Soft Maple
  
• Leverwood
  
• Red Maple
  
• Swamp Maple
  
• Water Maple

Common Knowledge

• Acer rubrum is a deciduous tree that is native to North America.
  
• It is also known as the red maple or the swamp maple.
  
• Acer rubrum typically grows to a height of 15-30 m (50-100 ft).
  
• The leaves of the red maple are palmate, meaning they have five lobes, and are 6-12 cm (5-5 in) wide.
  
• The leaves are bright red in the fall.
  
• The tree produces small, red fruits known as samaras.
  
• Acer rubrum is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive flowers and leaves, as well as its tolerance to a variety of soil types.
  
• The red maple can be used as a food source for birds and other wildlife.
  
• The wood of the red maple is heavy and hard, making it suitable for a variety of uses, such as lumber, floors, and furniture.
  
• Acer rubrum is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests, including verticillium wilt and aphids.

Related plant:
Acer Shrub

Planting Process

1. For acer rubrum, first step is to find the perfect location. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
   
2. The second step is to loosen the soil in the planting hole and mix in some organic matter.
   
3. The third step is to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball.
   
4. The fourth step is to place the tree in the hole and backfill with the soil mixture.
   
5. The fifth step is to water the tree deeply and regularly for the first few months.
   
6. The sixth step is to apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree.
   
7. The seventh step is to fertilize the tree in early spring and again in late summer.
   
8. The eighth step is to prune the tree in late winter or early spring.
   
9. The ninth step is to protect the tree from frost damage in its first winter.
   
10. The tenth step is to enjoy your beautiful acer rubrum for many years to come!

Related plant:
Acer Tree

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Acer rubrum (red maple) prefers deep, moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions, including poor, dry soils. It also tolerates a wide range of pH.

About light

Similar to other maples, the rubrum maple prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. It is a relatively fast grower, adding 2 to 3 feet per year. Once established, it is also quite drought tolerant.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for the growth of Acer Rubrum is a warm temperate climate. This means that the average daytime temperature should be between 18-24 degrees Celsius and the nighttime temperature should be between 10-15 degrees Celsius.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% and above. anything below that, the leaves will start to droop and the plant will become stressed. to raise the humidity, you can use a humidifier or place the plant on a pebble tray.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, this kind of plant needs more phosphorus during early spring. Also, a well-balanced fertilizer should be applied every few weeks during the growing season. Keep in mind that too much fertilizer can actually damage the tree. As for the roots, Acer rubrum has a tap root system, meaning that the main root grows straight down. The feeder roots are located in the upper few inches of soil and are responsible for taking in water and nutrients.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of plant maintenance. It helps to remove dead or diseased leaves and branches, and can also help to encourage new growth. Acer rubrum is a deciduous tree that is known for its beautiful red leaves. When pruning this tree, be sure to remove any dead or diseased leaves and branches. You can also prune back any overgrown branches to encourage new growth.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is generally by seed, which is sown in early spring in a cold frame; it germinates readily. Cuttings of side shoots can be taken in mid to late summer and are best rooted under mist with bottom heat.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate takes place in the spring and summer. However, some growth can occur in the fall and winter in warmer climates. The plant typically grows to a height of 30 to 40 feet and a width of 20 to 30 feet, but can sometimes reach up to 50 feet tall and 35 feet wide.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, dieback, canker, and decline. These problems are caused by different fungi, bacteria, or insects. They can be difficult to control, so it is important to identify the problem and take the appropriate action.

Tips on Growing

• Make sure to plant your Acer rubrum in an area that receives full sun.
  
• This tree does best in moist, well-drained soils.
  
• Be sure to water your Acer rubrum regularly, especially during dry periods.
  
• Fertilize your tree every year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your Acer rubrum regularly to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
  
• This tree is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, so be sure to monitor it closely.
  
• Acer rubrum is a relatively fast-growing tree, so be prepared to give it plenty of space.
  
• Deer love to nibble on Acer rubrum leaves, so take steps to protect your tree if you have deer in your area.
  
• This tree produces beautiful fall foliage, so be sure to enjoy it while it lasts.
  
• Acer rubrum is a long-

Related Plants

• Rubrum
  
• Crimson
  
• Bay
  
• Cherry
  
• Gilbert's
  
• Pla
  
• Pome
  
• Post
  
• Scarlet
  
• Strawberry

Source:
| Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants | University of Florida, IFAS
Acer rubrum - Species Page - APA: Alabama Plant Atlas
Red Maple (Acer rubrum) Phenophase Definitions - Signs of the …