I have a maple tree in my yard that is more than 30 years old. It never made flying seeds until this year. I like the tree and don't want to have it removed but the seeds are clogging my cutters and making a mess everywhere. Why did it start making seeds after so many years and can I do anything to the tree so it doesn't make seeds again next summer?

Greetings Nancy:

Depending on the species of maple that you have in your yard (sugar maple, Norway maple, red maple, etc.), the time required to reach sexual maturity (flowering) varies.

Unfortunately for some homeowners, seed production creates additional yard work -- but hey, yard work is fun and a necessary evil of owning a home :-) After all, if trees didn't flower and produce seed, then it would be very difficult to propagate additional trees.

There are several products on the open market that may help prevent seed production, but they are often costly and difficult to apply. Such products include Florel Fruit Eliminator. Timing of application is critical and the product must be applied every year. I personally do not have any experience with growth regulators and please note that I do not endorse or condemn their use.