Maple tree leaves
Diane Asked
I have a new maple tree and the first leaves it grew were not maple leaves then they died and now it’s getting maple leaves. Is this normal here in Kentucky?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Diane: I am wondering if the first growth that you saw on your Maple were the flowers and not the foliage. Maple (Acer) is a large genus and not knowing which one you have, it is hard to be specific, but Red Maples (Acer rubrum) produce flowers before they develop foliage in the spring. They can produce just male or just female flowers on each individual tree, or they can produce both male and female on the same tree. As these flowers fade, the fruit is produced along with the foliage. Initial foliage can look different when unfolding but it should not drop. If the overall health of the tree is good you have nothing to be concerned about. Remember to keep your new tree watered during our hot summer months.
Angie Oakley
Kentucky Living-Ask the Gardener
