Question
I hope you can help on this. I planted one of
them twirly "seeds" that fall off big trees
back in May. It actually started growing, so
I put it in a small pot. Now it's a potted
little tree about 1-1/2 feet tall. --But what
to do with it during the winter? Leave it
outdoors? Will it freeze solid? Take it inside?
Any ideas about my little tree-ling? Thanks
in advance from Max...in cold-winter Chicago

Answer
I believe the "twirly" seed you are talking about is from a red maple (acer rubrum). In general, any native tree that drops seeds and germinates on its own will live outside in your Chicago winter just fine. In fact, the seed of the red maple requires a period of cooling before they germinate. Down here in North Carolina, we put red maple trees in the refrigerator to "simulate" winter in order for the seeds to germinate. As for your tree, Max, I'd keep it inside of a garage or some other area that is not directly outside this winter. Then next spring, plant your little tree in a spot where it can get sunlight and lots of room to grow.