Is there a way to stop maple trees from producing keys (without cutting down the tree).?

Answer 1

http://www.aboutmapletrees.com/maple_tree_care.shtml
http://www.maple-tree.com/
http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/fil/pages/webspreadinje.html
http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/cangard/msg061210234104.html?8

Those keys (aka the things that fall down and spin like little helicopters) are the seeds for a new maple tree. Maple trees are on the decline and need to be restored in population. As far as I know there is no way to stop them from producing new keys. Unless.....You cut it down. I know that they can cause a mess in the yard but not all of the little spinners will take root. If they do just yank them out like you do weeds.Or you can pull them up and ask your local nursery if they would like them to sell. Maybe you could make some money off those that do take root.

Answer 2

How funny; I've never heard the winged seedpods called "keys" before, but it's cute. :) This is kind of off-topic, but here's what I *have* heard them called: helicopters, whirligigs and -- my personal fave -- pollinoses! (or polynoses, various spellings). Apparently only folks from the state of New York call them that. I learned it from my dad.

As for the REAL horticultural/botanical name of the seedpods, they're called samaras. :)

Answer 3

Trees make keys ????