Temperature Tolerance (zones) and Sun Exposure for Maples

A Word About Temperature Tolerance (zones) and Sun Exposure

A lot of gardeners rely on USDA hardiness zones to determine which maples will do well in their area. Zone reliance only works to a limited extent because there are so many micro climates affecting the Zone in which you live. Variables such as temperature, light, humidity, rainfall, wind and varying seasonal patterns the micro climate in your landscape which in turn affect growing conditions of your maples. 

It is important to pay attention to these variables if you want to have success with the plants you place in your landscape.

In our maple filters, we have included two primary climate factors to help you with your choices of maples.  For that reason we want to clarify what we mean by Temperature Tolerance and Sun Exposure filters on our website.

Temperature tolerance refers to how much variation in temperature a maple may handle without failing to thrive or die.  The key word here is may - since micro climates and care come into play with great effect. Young maples need winter protection from the elements in very cold climates.   The zones we have listed for each cultivar indicate the maximum cold threshold that the cultivar may withstand  - for established older trees with proper care. Winterizing your maple in the colder climates is a prudent way to keep your young tree alive through its first few winters as it becomes acclimated to the cold. (See Winterize your Maple)

Sun Exposure can be quite variable as well.  Sun all day may be fine in locations where daytime temperatures and sun intensity may not be that extreme. Maples may do well in "hot states" like Texas, Florida, and even Hawaii if placed in the right location and treated properly. 

We have used three sets of Sun Exposure descriptions to help choose the right maple and guide you in placing your maple so it will thrive in its location.

Moderate Sun - the maple can handle a fair amount of sun in low heat areas. 

Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade - the maple needs protection from the hot sun - this is for maples if your area reaches over 85° on many days in the summer...almost all maples do best with this kind of situation.

Moderate Shade -  the maple performs well in lower light with at least 3 hrs. sun.
In the end - remember that maples in their native habitats are under story plants.  Through hundreds of years of cultivation gardeners have experimented by placing them out into different landscapes pushing their limits.  

Depending on your micro climates and where you place your maple will affect the growth of your maple dramatically. One of the keys to a healthy beautiful maple is finding the right location.  And when in doubt about placement go with Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade.