I have a beautiful red Japanese Maple that has been growing in my yard for almost 9 years. This year it has seed pods on it and I want to know if I can germinate a new seedling from those helicopters. Thanks! This is my first question and day on the UBC site!
See this thread for more details: Maple seeds wont sprout If the climate in your zone is suitable, the easiest method is to harvest the seeds in the fall when the samaras (wings) start to brown, plant in pots or trays 1/4 inch (or less) deep, and leave outside all winter in an area protected from rodents and other pests. With any luck they will sprout in the spring. If you have the time and the inclination, the methods detailed in the link above may produce better results, at the expense of more effort. Good luck.