Sugar maple - 8 seeds

Acer saccharum, commonly known as sugar maple, is a deciduous tree native to North America, particularly the northeastern regions of the United States and Canada. It is famous for its sugar-rich sap, which is collected in the spring to produce the renowned maple syrup. This tree can grow to impressive heights of up to 30 meters, with a straight and sturdy trunk, featuring grey bark that slightly cracks as it ages.

The palmate leaves of Acer saccharum are a deep green during most of the year, but in autumn, they transform into an extraordinary mix of red, orange, and yellow hues, making it one of the most ornamental trees for landscaping in temperate areas. Its small flowers, yellow-green in color, appear in clusters in the spring before the leaves are fully developed.

The sugar maple prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter. It is cold-hardy, which allows it to thrive in cool, moist climates. While it is best known for its maple syrup production, obtained by collecting its sap and boiling it down to a thick syrup, Acer saccharum is also valued for its high-quality hardwood, widely used in carpentry and furniture making.

Its root system is deep, allowing it to access nutrients from deeper soil layers. Although it is a relatively slow-growing tree, its longevity and ability to adapt to a variety of conditions make it a highly prized species in both natural environments and commercial cultivation. Additionally, its fallen leaves make excellent mulch for the soil, promoting the regeneration of surrounding plants.

How to germinate Acer saccharum seeds

Acer saccharum seeds require a cold stratification process to germinate properly. Start by soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before beginning the stratification process.

Next, place the seeds in a plastic bag with damp soil or sphagnum moss and store them in the refrigerator at around 4°C for 30 to 60 days. This simulates winter and is essential to break the seed dormancy.

After this period, remove the seeds and sow them superficially in a seed tray or pots, ensuring the substrate stays slightly moist. The ideal germination temperature is around 20°C.

Once the seedlings emerge, maintain cool, well-lit conditions, avoiding direct sunlight, until they grow large enough to be transplanted outdoors, preferably in spring.