Q.red maple tree
We have a small red maple tree in a pot, and want to know if we should plant it in the ground for winter. or bring it in the house and give it another year to get little bigger before putting it in the ground ?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It would be best to wait until the maple was at least 2 years old before planting, but there is a good chance it would survive. For the best chance, though, I would wait until next year.
Fall is a great time to plant red maples. I think you should go for it this year. Trees planted when they're smaller often do better than those planted when they're larger.
Don't fertilize the tree during the first winter to avoid stressing it; wait till next year. Here are some articles with advice on planting maple saplings/seedlings and other trees:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/maple/care-of-red-maple-trees.htm
http://csfs.colostate.edu/seedling-planting-guide/
extension.psu.edu/publications/ee0127
