How Many Oversized Trees Are Planted Every Year?

There is no denying that trees are an essential part of our environment, providing numerous benefits such as purifying the air, combating climate change, and enhancing the aesthetic value of our landscapes. However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern about oversized trees and their impact on our communities. Oversized trees not only pose safety hazards to people and property but also increase maintenance costs for property owners. So the question arises: how many oversized trees are planted every year?

The Definition of Oversized Trees

Before delving into the statistics of how many oversized trees are planted annually, it is important to define what we mean by the term "oversized trees." These are trees that grow bigger than what is recommended for the area they are planted in, either due to human negligence or natural circumstances. Oversized trees usually have extensive root systems that can cause damage to sidewalks, driveways, and building foundations, and their branches can break off and fall, causing injury and damage to property.

The Statistics

The statistics of how many oversized trees are planted every year are hard to come by since most tree planting efforts are focused on planting the right tree in the right place. However, it is estimated that a significant number of oversized trees are being planted every year, especially in residential areas. According to a study conducted by the City of Toronto, about 22% of all trees planted in 2018 were planted too close to buildings, resulting in potential hazards and higher maintenance costs.

In another study conducted in California, it was found that almost 30% of the street trees planted in San Francisco were planted too close to utility lines, causing damage and service disruptions. Moreover, the study revealed that in many cases, the property owners had to bear the costs of tree pruning and removal, which were more expensive due to the trees' large size.

The Impact of Oversized Trees

The impact of oversized trees can be severe, ranging from safety hazards to increased maintenance costs. When trees grow too big, they can interfere with power lines, obstruct streetlights, and damage sidewalks and roads. Falling limbs from oversized trees can also cause harm to people and pets, and their roots can weaken the ground, leading to soil erosion and property damage. Furthermore, pruning or removing an oversized tree can be prohibitively expensive, especially when compared to a smaller, well-placed tree.

The Solutions

The solution to the problem of oversized trees is to plant the right tree in the right place. This involves careful consideration of the tree's mature size, its root system, and its growth rate. It also means avoiding planting trees too close to buildings, power lines, and other infrastructure. Property owners can consult with certified arborists to help them choose the right tree for their landscape, and cities can enforce regulations that ensure proper tree planting practices.

In conclusion, while there is no definite answer to how many oversized trees are planted every year, it is clear that they pose a real problem for our communities. By planting the right tree in the right place, we can ensure that our trees provide the many benefits they are known for without causing undue harm to our environment and communities.