Maples are a classic and gorgeous group of trees that are cold hardy, fast growing, and low maintenance. This collection of trees has a wide variety of options for a landscape. We've compiled a list of some of the best Maple trees for fall color. Keep reading for information on Maple tree care.
Best Maple Trees for Fall Color
Best Maple Trees for Fall Color Varieties
USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 8
Fast growing and sturdy, the Autumn Blaze Maple tree has all the best qualities of its parents, the Red and Silver Maples. This tree is disease and pest resistant and adapts to a variety of soils and environments. Enjoy the fall transition...green to orange to crimson red; this maple has one of the best fall displays!
USDA Growing Zones: 5 to 9
The Bloodgood Japanese Maple is a dwarf shade tree for smaller yards or gardens. This tree grows to about 15 to 30 feet tall and wide at maturity. Still big enough for some shade, but small enough for an urban yard. This Japanese maple tree offers great color year-round. The fall color is bright red, but in spring and summer, the unique foliage is deep burgundy.
USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 7
The Crimson King Maple has showy, deep purple foliage that turns maroon to bronze in fall. Hardy and low maintenance, this maple is easy to grow. For a bold and unique shade tree, the Crimson King is our top pick.
USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 9
The fast growing October Glory Maple tree is great for almost instant landscape gratification! This maple is drought tolerant and low maintenance. And let’s not forget that brilliant orange-red fall color!
USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 8
Easy to grow and maintain the Red Sunset Maple tree is a real winner! Expect to see that gorgeous fall transition start early with the Red Sunset. You will love to see the green leaves turn orange, announcing the arrival of fall, and then turning into a beautiful red as the weather cools.
USDA Growing Zones: 3 to 9
The largest of the Maples, the tried and true Silver Maple tree can reach heights of 80 feet. This tree is an extremely fast grower and can grow up to 7 feet per year! Fall turns the silvery-green leaves a bold and beautiful yellow. This shade tree’s fall color is perfect for contrasting and complementing red maple trees.
Care of Maple Trees
When to Plant
Spring and fall are best, but you can plant in summer if you compensate with plenty of water, and in winter if the ground is diggable.
Sunlight
Full sun is ideal for fastest growth, but maple trees tolerate some shade.
Soil
Maple trees prefer moist, well-drained, slightly acidic, and nutrient rich soil. However, they adapt to a variety of soils.
Mulch
Choose pine straw or pine bark as it will help add acidity to the soil over time. Mulching will also aid in keeping the roots cool and moist. Add a layer of 2 inches of mulch; extend the bed a few inches out past the root zone. Do not allow the mulch to touch the trunk as this increases the chances of pests and disease.
Water
Maple trees should be watered often enough to keep the soil moist. Maples can tolerate a wet area, but they shouldn't be in standing water. When newly planted, water deeply at least twice per week. After the first year, maples are drought tolerant.
Food
Fertilize in early spring with a slow release fertilizer and when planting to give your tree a boost.
Pruning
Maple trees don't generally require pruning, but, if needed, prune when they are dormant to remove any dead, dying, or crowded branches, or to maintain shape.
Pro Tip
Maples are salt intolerant so keep them away from road sides in cooler climates and beach areas.
Now you know the best maple trees for fall color and how to care for them!
Browse our online plant nursery and Shade Trees collection for more fall color options.
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