Celebratory maple

Planting a tree to celebrate a major event is a tradition in our family. The tree grows, forever marking the moment in time when it was planted. It’s like a reminder of how far we’ve come, how many years have passed. We planted trees for each of our children, then marveled as the trees–and their namesakes–grew. Even if we no longer own the property where those trees are located, we know their significance and they’ve served as wonderful reminders. So once we owned this place in Vermont, we decided to plant a maple tree. It would be a symbol of our commitment to the land, and a reminder of when our adventure first began.

During a prior Vermont visit during leaf peeping season we marveled at the color variations of trees, particularly the yellows, oranges, and reds of sugar maples, the state tree. We began to talk about buying and planting a sugar maple tree as a first order of business.

During one exchange with a local family member, it was explained to us that new trees, usually planted in the spring, require routine care and watering throughout the summer to ensure their roots become established and to provide strength against formidable winters. Until we were on site continuously for an entire spring and summer season to provide care, it made no sense to waste time and money on a planting. Our celebratory sugar maple would have to wait.

During this visit, we take note of a few clumps of small trees and saplings that have pushed their way farther into the meadow than others. Among the first of the trees to be cleared, we discovered an old apple tree. Could it be saved to flourish once again?

But farther down the meadow, in another clump to be cleared, we uncover a nice maple, largest among the invaders but still small-ish compared to nearby trees 100+ years senior. That little maple is established — it has managed to fight its way skyward among all its many competitors.

So on this day we find our celebratory maple. That little tree, like our place, has potential.