This is one of the most common opinions expressed about this tree [Acer saccharinum] in central Oklahoma. The most common opinion refers to it's very rapid rate of growth. And it is the second comment, and only the second one, that has helped create a healthy market for Silver Maples in central Oklahoma. Home buyers will gladly ignore all the horror stories about this tree once they hear "fast grower"... because bigger trees translate into more money when they sell the house.
The second or third owner of this home will get to deal with the unfortunate consequences of that initial decision... the roots can and do heave sidewalks, driveways, footings and foundations... and they compete voraciously for any water and food applied under their crown.
You and I know there are locations and climates perfectly suited to Silver Maples...
but keep this caveat in mind, "Perhaps best sited in areas of poor soil or low wet conditions where other stronger wooded trees will not grow."

Fortunately for me the previous tenant had built a 10x13 foot X 6 inch raised planter under the crown and they had backfilled it with an exceptionally good soil mix.
So, two years after moving in I decided to test that tree. I began by "freshening and fortifying" the soil mix. One soil amendment is worth mentioning... I was introduced to it by Ann Lovejoy in 'Further Along the Garden Path.' She said, "In very dry soils and situations, garden hydro-gels can make a world of difference to plant performances. These new garden gels... are among the best soil amendments money can buy."
She did offer one caveat... "There are many brands on the market, but they are not created equal; only those which are at least 94 percent copolymer will hold up in a garden setting. For garden use we want long-term performance, and [we] should invest in more permanent gels. In my own tests over the past five years, I have found Broadleaf P4 to be the longest lasting, with Viterra Aqua-Gel running in second place."

Once bed prep was completed I began by way of planting a few perennials noted for their ability to withstand adverse growing conditions. Once those plants proved their ability to thrive I branched out and planted some "questionable" perennials.

And then, about four years ago, I took a big leap and planted ferns. Some find them boring. A few say they all look alike... it doesn't matter...
I love ferns.
'Ghost' Fern

'Autumn' Fern

'Tokyo Wood' Fern

'Japanese Painted' Fern

'Parsley' Fern