Shade Tree of the Week — ‘October Glory’ Red Maple

If you can picture a maple tree, you can also visualize the dreamy shade it casts and the relaxation of lying underneath it and looking at the sky. No wonder why maple trees are some of the best shade trees for Texas homes! The October Glory is a stunning, fiery Red Maple cultivar that will not disappoint – and, with its red leaves, it creates an idyllic Autumn feel.

This Red Maple thrives in hotter locations, and it is perfect for Southern homes that welcome a warm Fall season. With this tree, you can count on delicate spring flowers, jaw-dropping fall tones, and fast growth.

While this is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful shade trees to add to your garden, it is certainly not the only one! If you are unsure whether this is a suitable cultivar or species for your needs, don’t hesitate to contact the ISA-certified arborists at TreeNewal.

October Glory Tree: A Stunning Autumnal Shade Tree

Have you ever heard of the October Glory Red Maple Tree? Let’s start from the basics – although the chances are that you have marveled at this tree before! Nonetheless, there is plenty to know about this cultivar.

The October Glory Tree – also known as Acer rubrum October Glory – belongs to the Red Maple family and is one of its fastest-growing cultivars. This broadleaf maple tree is known for its bright leaves, which turn from dark, intense green in summer to a fiery bright red in Fall. For Autumn-vibe lovers, there isn’t a better option!

Here are some of the facts about this tree:

• They are native to the U.S. East Coast!
• These trees adapted to grow in climate zones characterized by hot summers and mild winters.
• It produces conspicuous red flowers in Spring and small red fruits in summer.
• It can grow as tall as 40-50 feet and as large as 25-35 feet.
• It grows around 1-2 feet each season.

While this tree is known to be hardy and easily adaptable to a variety of soils, it is particularly suited for U.S. agricultural zones 5-to-9. Depending on where this tree is grown, it will assume slightly different characteristics.

Growing October Glory Maple Tree: The Basics

If you are confident that the October Glory Red Maple Tree is the best choice for your garden, it is time to learn about the basics of growing and caring for your plant. Below are steps to help get started with your October Glory tree, but ensure you understand the sections below and get in touch with an ISA-certified arborist, like TreeNewal, if you require assistance.

Pick a Partially Shaded Spot

If you have experience with other maple cultivars, you won’t be surprised to know that the October Glory variety can easily stand most light conditions. However, ideally, you should pick a spot that receives some sun during the day, but also plenty of shade!

The October Glory Maple Tree root system is not as aggressive as Silver Maples or other species that require placement away from your house.

However, this is a fast-growing cultivar; in turn, the October Glory Maple Tree root system can quickly raise and damage sidewalks. To prevent damages to your home’s foundations, you should consider keeping it at a distance of at least 10ft from the house.

Analyze the Soil

October Glory Red Maple trees can thrive in a great range of soil types. While the pH or soil composition might not matter so much for your October Glory, the moisture level does.

Avoid planting your Maple Tree in a soil type that dries out quickly or is prone to salt and droughts. Oppositely, pick a soil that efficiently retains water and moisture.

A Glory Maple Tree Thrives With Adequate Water

On average, maples need around 10-12 gallons of water a week to continue growing and remain healthy. However, this quantity can vary depending on the heat, climate, temperature, and downpours.

In the scorching summer heat, you should consider irrigating your plant more often to ensure its leaves, fruits, and flowers receive and retain all the necessary nutrients. As the temperatures drop, you can reduce the amount and frequency of watering.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer for October Glory Red Maple Trees

October Glory Red Maple trees can withstand various environments and don’t require as much tree fertilization to grow and thrive. However, tree nutrition is essential, especially if the soil does not retain moisture very well or if the area is subjected to summer droughts.

Ideally, it would be best if you fertilized your October Glory Maple tree in Spring, after the last frost. In terms of fertilizer choice, opt for a well-balanced, slow-release one and ensure you learn the basics of fertilizing your trees!

Planting October Glory Maple Trees

Planting October Glory Maple Trees is a delicate task that you can complete by yourself, even with minimal experience in planting trees. Once you have found the perfect spot for your plant, follow the instructions of one of our ISA-certified arborists at TreeNewal.

Some tips to streamline the process include:

• Continue to water your young plant regularly until its roots are established
• Your tree can take around one season to establish roots
• Continue to watch for pests (common ones include borers, scales, and aphids)
• Prevent common diseases such as scorch, tar spot, leaf spot, and girdling roots.

After planting your October Glory Red Maple, it will require minimal tree care. However, it would be best if you watched out for girdling roots. If left unaddressed, this condition kills your maple tree; prevent it by removing circling roots when your tree is still young.

Let Us Help You Care For Your October Glory

Caring for your October Glory tree is easy once you have a good grasp of the basics. However, it is normal to feel intimidated by the task of growing a tree. That is where you can leverage the knowledge and skills of our experienced tree doctors and ISA-certified arborists at TreeNewal. Get in touch to understand if an October Glory red maple is for you and how to take the best care of it.

To learn more about Everything, You Need to Know About the October Glory Maple Tree, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at tel:(817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

We’re a little different than the average tree services company.

Learn more about TreeNewal’s ISA Certified Arborists!

Our Dallas/Fort Worth-based tree doctors can explain how sustainable tree care services add more value to your bottom line.

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