What type of maple tree is this and is it normal for it to clump? - Ask Extension
Hello, we have this large (100+ft.) maple tree growing just over our property line on our neighbor's property. (It's their tree.). This maple has sev...
Knowledgebase
What type of maple tree is this and is it normal for it to clump? #844499
Asked August 07, 2023, 10:21 AM EDT
Hello, we have this large (100+ft.) maple tree growing just over our property line on our neighbor's property. (It's their tree.). This maple has several trunks at the base. One large one has already died. One that is still alive is hanging directly over our house. Can you please identify the type of maple this is and let me know if it is a variety that naturally grows in clusters or if it grew this way because it is compromised in some way. We are trying to figure out if this tree is healthy. Thank you.
Kalkaska County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Debra,
The tree is a sugar maple, and from pictures there is no good way to determine if the tree is healthy or not. Many trees grow in clumps, sometimes as a result from sprouts that appear when a tree is cut down (stump sprouts). Some trees grow from stump sprouts and live to be large, old trees.
The top of the crown is a good initial indicator of tree health; dead branches at the top indicate a root issue. There are many other factors to consider when assessing a tree's health, and its best to do an on-site assessment.
You may wish to hire a certified arborist to take a look? You can find one using the link below:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
Thank you,
-Julie
The tree is a sugar maple, and from pictures there is no good way to determine if the tree is healthy or not. Many trees grow in clumps, sometimes as a result from sprouts that appear when a tree is cut down (stump sprouts). Some trees grow from stump sprouts and live to be large, old trees.
The top of the crown is a good initial indicator of tree health; dead branches at the top indicate a root issue. There are many other factors to consider when assessing a tree's health, and its best to do an on-site assessment.
You may wish to hire a certified arborist to take a look? You can find one using the link below:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
Thank you,
-Julie
