Acer saccharum

Germination

Germination advice for Acers is varied. Precise, species specific advice is often contradictory. As a general guideline we suggest sowing the seed as soon as you receive it. Soak the seeds for 24 hours in water. Sow into moist well-drained seed compost then cold stratify. Move to 1-8°C for 2-4 months. If planting in the autumn a cold frame would be ideal or otherwise use a refrigerator. Then return to warmth. Can be slow to germinate, taking up to 2 years. cold frame planted seeds often germinate in spring. When seedlings are large enough to handle transplant to a larger pot and grow on until 20cm tall before planting out with 8M spacing.

Growing

Prefers a moist, well-drained soil. Will grow in any soil though including heavy clay.

Cultivation

No routine pruning required. Remove diseased, damaged or congested crossing shoots. Prune in late autumn to mid winter. After pruning mulch and feed.