October Glory Maple

Whether you have a natural “green thumb” or just appreciate beauty, the October Glory tree is perfect for you! No other Maple tree exudes the radiance and longevity of the October Glory.

Features of the October Glory Maple:

This vibrant Red Maple requires minimal attention in order to flourish! The beautiful October Glory Maple grows rapidly into an attractive oval shape.

When established and secure the October Glory can grow over 3 feet per year! At maturity the October Glory reaches between 40 to 50 feet in height with a 25 to 30 feet spread.

The leaves of an October Glory are 3 lobed opposite. In the spring and summer they have a luminous medium to dark green color. You will even see tiny, yet showy red flowers appear in the spring. These little flowers pop against the green adding to the beauty of this tree.

In late fall, when the trees around them are shedding and preparing for winter, the October Glory Maple shines! A stunning reddish color appears that will brighten up your yard.

The October Glory prefers sunlight. While easy to transplant and grow in a variety of soils, the October Glory thrives in acidic soil. This Maple Tree is able to tolerate soggy or occasionally flooded soil. Unlike others in its class, the October Glory is less dependent on weather. The October Glory Maple tree can survive in many different climates, adding to its appeal.

When planting your October Glory Maple tree be sure you have the right location and conditions for your new tree to thrive. Spring and Fall are ideal times to plant. However, if you avoid freezing and hot temperatures you can plant your Maple almost any time of the year.

These trees tolerate full sun to part shade and prefer soil that is well-drained, slightly acidic, and nutrient rich. However, October Glory Maples will adapt to a variety of soils. If you have alkaline soil, you can amend your soil. To acidify your soil, amend with compost, elemental sulfur, or use fertilizers specific for acid loving plants. Mulching with pine straw or pine bark will help over time as they begin to break down, but are not an immediate solution for increasing acidity. Mulching will also aid in keeping the roots cool and moist. Add a layer of 2 to 3 inches of mulch. Do not allow the mulch to touch the trunk as this increases the chances of pests and disease. Maples should be watered often enough to keep the soil moist. Maples can tolerate a wet area, but they shouldn't be in standing water. Fertilize in early spring and when planting to give your tree a boost. Choose a slow release fertilizer. When planting take care not to burn the roots by mixing the fertilizer into the soil before placing your tree in the hole. 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. Maples are salt intolerant so keep them away from road sides in cooler climates and beach areas as well as any area known for soils with high salinity.  For additional tips check out our article on Shade tree care.

The best way to prevent disease and pests is by providing the appropriate care for your plants. Proper location choice, watering, and fertilization are the keys to your success. Scale and Aphids are insects that can affect Maples. You can treat these pests naturally with horticultural oil, neem oil, or insecticidal soap. For severe infections you can use pesticides like carbaryl, also known as Sevin. Occasionally fungal issues can arise. Generally, treating after infection isn't extremely effective, so if you have problems yearly treat in early spring with fungicides to prevent infection. Neem Oil is an organic method of treating some fungal diseases and pests. It can be effective, but the entire tree must be coated in order for this method to be effective.

Shade trees add character, charm, and value to your home. The October Glory Maple is a solid, strong shade tree that will make your landscape stand out. This fast growing maple is the perfect choice for a focal shade tree.

For additional options, be sure to browse our Japanese Maple and Maple Tree collections.