Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Difficulty: ⭐☆☆☆☆

Seed Collection Time:

Late spring to early summer — typically May through early June

Signs seeds are ready:

• Produces paired samaras (winged seeds) that turn from green to light brown when mature.

• Seeds are plump and firm, and samaras detach easily when shaken.

• Unlike many other trees, Red Maple disperses its seeds in late spring (not fall).

Seed collection steps:

1. Collect mature samaras directly from branches or shortly after they fall.

2. Choose seeds that are firm and unblemished.

3. Do not allow seeds to dry out — they are recalcitrant and lose viability quickly.

Germination tip:

• Red Maple seeds are non-dormant and germinate soon after dispersal if kept moist and warm.

• No stratification required if planted fresh.

• If storage is needed, place in moist medium in the refrigerator for no more than a few weeks.

• Germination typically occurs in 1–3 weeks under warm, moist conditions.