How Does A Tree Know How Tall To Grow?

A young tree among mature trees

How does a tree know how tall to grow? Nature is rife with intriguing questions and what makes a tree stop growing is one of the most interesting ones. Here’s what tree scientists have to say about tree height.

No absolute answer
It’s tempting to think that scientists know everything that there is to know about the trees that share our outdoor world. However, scientists aren’t entirely sure why trees don’t continue to reach higher and higher into the sky as they age. Indeed, when Martha Foley of North Country Public Radio discussed the current scientific thinking about tree growth with Dr. Paul Stager of Paul Smith’s College, he noted that researchers are still exploring the question.

Water might play a significant role in stopping tree growth
Although researchers don’t know for sure what factors cause a tree to stop growing, there is evidence that a tree can’t transport water into the upper part of its body as it ages. Gravity, combined with the general weakening of the tree from age, makes it hard for the trunk to transport needed water to the upper portion of the tree. The lack of water prevents new upward growth.

What you can do to help your tree touch the sky
You can help your tree to reach its maximum height by placing it on a routine maintenance schedule. Of course, no amount of tree care will make the maple in your backyard grow as tall as the 300-foot redwoods living at the Redwood National Park in California. Nonetheless, proper care can help your favorite tree to thrive.

Pruning is one of the most powerful things that you can do for the trees in your yard. Indeed, the tree care experts at American Arborists say that pruning is an essential practice for ensuring tree health. Getting rid of excess branches is an excellent way to promote vitality and growth.

Lastly, with a little bit of luck, a healthy tree will reach the height that is appropriate for its species. You can encourage your tree to flourish through a regular maintenance program.

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