Brighten Your Yard with a Minnesota Maple Tree

When thinking of fall, one of the first things to cross your mind is likely the changing of the leaves. With stunning yellows, sunset oranges, and vibrant reds, who wouldn’t want to look out the window to such a beautiful sight, and what tree better fits this vision than the October Glory Maple tree. Sadly, this radiant maple species is not found in Minnesota, but that does not mean you won’t be able to enjoy the many benefits of having a maple tree in your yard. Instead, consider one of these five relatives as the next addition to your landscaping.

5 Maple Trees Native to MN

1. Black Maple

For those living in south central to southeastern Minnesota, the black maple is the most notable maple native to your region. This slow-growing tree can reach a height of 40-70 feet tall within its lifespan with a trunk diameter of 24-36 inches wide. Do not let its name fool you, come autumn, its dark green leaves turn into a variety of yellow, orange, and deep red, showcasing the classic maple colors.

2. Mountain Maple

Native to northeastern and east central Minnesota, the mountain maple is a small, slow-growing tree that only reaches a height of 20-30 feet tall, and a trunk width of 8-10 inches. Due to its smaller size, this is the only Minnesotan maple that cannot be used to make maple syrup, but do not let that fact stop you from admiring its beautiful maple colors. Come autumn, this almost shrub-like tree’s light green leaves turn into a variety of oranges and deep reds.

3. Red Maple

For the Minnesotans living on the eastern half of the state, you may be familiar with the red maple tree. Native to this region, this moderately fast-growing tree can reach a height of 40-65 feet tall within its lifespan with a trunk that is 10-24 inches in diameter. During the fall, its light green leaves turn vibrant shades yellow, orange, and deep red, giving the red maple its name.

4. Silver Maple

As the tallest of the Minnesota maple trees, the slow-growing silver maple can reach of 100 feet or more with a trunk that is over 36 inches wide. So, if you are looking for a tall tree, this may be the one for you. Native to southern Minnesota and along the Mississippi River, brightening up the river valley when the leaves turn to shades of yellow and orange in the fall. Unlike the other species on this list, this is a moderately shade intolerant tree, meaning it needs access to a lot of sunlight to thrive.

5. Sugar Maple

The last maple species found in Minnesota is the sugar maple tree. Known for its sweet sap, perfect for maple syrup, this tree is often found in the eastern half of the state. While it is a slow-growing tree, it can reach a height of over 80 feet with a trunk diameter of over 24 inches. Come autumn, its dark green leaves turn into a variety of deep red scarlet, orange, and yellows – no wonder it is considered to be one of the most colorful maple trees.

Benefits of Maple Trees

Regardless of which maple you choose, there are many benefits to planting one in your yard, such as:

• Beautiful Scenery: Not only are these trees beautiful come fall, but they also flower late in the winter, giving you a first glimpse of spring after the long Minnesotan winter.
• Low Maintenance Trees: Unlike other tree species that are more particular about soil pH, heat, and drought, maple trees are very tolerant, meaning they are relatively easy to grow and keep healthy.
• Long Lifespans: Most maple trees can live to be over 300 years if they are kept healthy, meaning you will not have to worry about the tree dying anytime soon.
• Sustain Local Wildlife: Like most trees, maples are a great shelter for many animals and insects. However, they are a great resource for honeybees in particular who are attracted to their flowers and sap, and who doesn’t want to help these little pollinators.
• Shade Your Yard: The thick foliage of maple trees will shade your yard, giving you and your family refuge on the hot summer days.
• Homemade Maple Syrup: Most maple tree owners also can collect maple sap to make syrup. For those who are a fan of the sweet substance, making homemade maple syrup is a relatively simple process that you can do from your own backyard.

As you look around at all the beautiful leaves this fall season, ask yourself “do you want this view from your window?” With their natural beauty and many benefits, planting a maple tree in your yard may be just what you need to bring your landscaping to the next level. For any tree questions and needs this season, contact Ivan’s Tree Service.