How to Tell if a Tree was Planted or Natural

Trees can be found everywhere, whether in natural settings or in urban areas. But how can you differentiate between natural and planted trees? Knowing how to do this can help you understand the history and purpose of the tree, and even give you an insight into the environment around it. In this article, we will take a look at some essential signs to distinguish between a natural and planted tree.

Tree Age

The age of a tree can give you some clues on whether it was planted or it grew naturally. Most planted trees have a similar age, and they are usually spaced apart uniformly or in rows that indicate a deliberate attempt to populate an area. Also, there may be some evidence of pruning or shaping, which is commonly done to maintain a certain shape or size of the tree. On the other hand, natural trees have varying ages and may have a lot of twists, turns, and branches that are indicative of their organic growth.

Location

The location of a tree can also provide some important information regarding whether it is a natural or planted tree. Trees that grow in urban areas, such as parks and residential areas, are more likely to be planted. Trees that grow in natural settings, such as forests or other wild areas, are more likely to be natural. However, it is important to note that sometimes humans may plant trees in natural environments, and natural seeds may sprout in urban areas. Therefore, the location should be coupled with other signs to make a more accurate determination.

Root Pattern

The root pattern can also provide some insights into whether a tree was planted or grew naturally. The roots of a planted tree are usually confined to a certain area that is bounded by sidewalks or other hard surfaces. These roots may also be uniformly spaced and may be neatened by the use of landscaping equipment. Conversely, natural trees have an extensive and organic root system that may meander in any direction along with the natural terrain. In addition, natural trees may have a buttress, which is a widened base that stabilizes the tree as it grows in less stable soil.

Trunk Shape and Size

The shape and size of the tree trunk can also provide some indications of whether the tree was planted or grew naturally. Trees that are grown for commercial purposes, such as timber production, are usually planted in rows and pruned extensively to grow straight with minimum branching. In these cases, the tree trunk is likely to be uniform in shape, size, and spacing. Conversely, natural trees can have varying sizes and shapes, with some having a wider girth at the base than at the top, and may have multiple trunks or branches.

Conclusion

Determining whether a tree was planted or it grew naturally can be an exciting and informative exercise that can help you understand the environment around you. By observing factors such as age, location, root pattern, and trunk shape and size, you can determine whether a tree is natural or planted. Keep in mind that some factors, such as the location, may not always be foolproof, and you may need to use a combination of several other factors to make a more accurate determination. So the next time you see a tree, take a closer look and see what you can learn about it!