Boxelder Maple Tree Seeds

Boxelder Maple Tree Seeds

(Acer negundo d.w.)

The Boxelder maple tree, also known as Acer negundo or the ash-leaved maple, is a species of maple native to North America.

Description

• Appearance: It typically has a rough, irregularly shaped trunk and grows to a height of 30 to 50 feet. The leaves are compound, usually with three to five leaflets, which is unusual for maples.
• Leaves: The leaves are green and turn yellow in the fall. They are opposite and compound, with three to seven leaflets.
• Bark: The bark is pale gray or light brown and becomes furrowed as the tree matures.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in early spring before the leaves.

Habitat

• Range: Boxelder maples are native to a wide range of environments in North America, from Canada to southern parts of the United States.
• Soil and Light: They prefer moist, well-drained soils but are highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types. They thrive in full sun to partial shade.

Characteristics

• Growth Rate: Boxelder maples grow quickly and can reach maturity in about 15-20 years.
• Lifespan: They have a relatively short lifespan compared to other maples, usually living around 30 to 60 years.
• Wood: The wood is soft and light, often used for cheap furniture, boxes, and firewood.

Ecological Impact

• Wildlife: The seeds (samaras) are a food source for birds and small mammals. The trees provide habitat for various species.
• Invasive Potential: In some regions, Boxelder maples are considered invasive due to their rapid growth and ability to colonize disturbed areas.

Issues

• Pests and Diseases: Boxelders are susceptible to pests like the boxelder bug and diseases such as verticillium wilt.
• Weak Wood: The wood is brittle, making the tree prone to storm damage.

Uses

• Landscaping: They are sometimes used in landscaping for quick shade and as windbreaks. However, they are often not recommended for ornamental use due to their weak wood and invasive nature.
• Erosion Control: Their extensive root systems make them useful for stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.

Zones: 3 to 9

Stratification Requirement: Seed requires 90 days cold moist stratification

Planting Instructions: 

1. Stratification:

Boxelder seeds require cold moist stratification to break dormancy.

• Method: Place the soaked seeds in a plastic bag with moist sand, peat moss or seed-starting mix.
• Temperature: Keep the bag in the refrigerator at a temperature of 34-41°F (1-5°C).
• Duration: Stratify for 90 days.

2. Planting Seeds:

• Timing: Plant seeds in the early spring after stratification.
• Location: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 6-8 inches and mix in compost to improve fertility.
• Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds about 1-2 feet apart.

3. Watering:

• Initial Watering: Water the planted seeds thoroughly after sowing.
• Ongoing Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.

4. Germination:

• Time Frame: Seeds typically germinate in 2-4 weeks under ideal conditions.
• Monitoring: Keep an eye on the soil moisture and ensure it remains slightly damp.

5. Transplanting:

• Timing: Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are sturdy enough to handle, they can be transplanted.
• Location: Choose a permanent location with enough space for the mature tree.
• Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling and plant at the same depth it was growing in the seed bed. Firm the soil around the roots and water well.

6. Care and Maintenance:

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the seedlings to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Watering: Water young trees regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Protection: Protect young seedlings from pests and extreme weather conditions.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow Boxelder maple trees from seed.