Knowing the basics of a tree’s life cycle is crucial for proper care and maintenance. While this is common knowledge among Kansas City landscaping professionals, the average gardener probably knows very little about the three primary phases of any basic tree. However, understanding this growth process allows a deeper connection between plant and arborer.
The initial accumulation of energy is used almost entirely to produce fresh growth. The first stage involves the trunks emergence out of the ground. Next, horizontal branches begin to form which allow additional growth until the dominance of the central trunk begins to diminish. These developments are collectively known as the development phase.
The second phase, called the maturity phase, continues the basic tenets of the first phase, allowing further upward and outward growth, while also progressing towards a rounder crown. Bottom branches begin to die and fall off to let more energy focus on higher growth.
The third and final phase forces the tree to face its own mortality. During the decline phase, the root system degrades and the entire organism starts to fail. As branches fall, the tree becomes less and less able to renew itself each year.
Understanding the life cycle of a tree is an important component of caring for a tree. If you need a professional for your landscaping needs, call Hermes Landscaping today.