Why Do They Only Plant Male Trees?

When it comes to planting trees, it may come as a surprise to learn that many cities and towns only plant male trees. This trend has been going on for several years, and it has left many people wondering why. After some research, it appears that there are several reasons why they only plant male trees.

Reason #1: No Messy Seeds or Fruit to Clean Up

One of the primary reasons why cities and towns plant male trees is that they don't produce messy seeds or fruit that can clutter up streets, sidewalks, and other public areas. Male trees only produce pollen, which doesn't litter the ground and doesn't require any cleanup. This is beneficial, as it prevents citizens from slipping and falling on fallen fruits or seeds and reduces the demand for street cleaning services.

Reason #2: Male Trees Are Often More Resilient Against Disease

Another reason why cities and towns opt for male trees is that they are often more resilient against disease. Female trees are more prone to developing disease, primarily due to the fruit they produce. Rotten fruit can attract insects and fungi, which can damage the tree and spread to other trees in the area. Since male trees do not produce fruit, they are less susceptible to such diseases. Additionally, many male trees are selected for their particular resistance to diseases, making them more suitable for urban environments.

Reason #3: Female Trees Can Produce Allergens

Another reason why cities and towns plant male trees is that female trees can produce allergens. While many tree species don't produce allergens, some species, such as oak trees, can cause allergies. Female oak trees, in particular, are notorious for producing large amounts of pollen that can trigger allergies in people. Male oak trees, on the other hand, produce much less pollen, making them a more preferred choice in urban environments.

Reason #4: Male Trees Are Less Messy Than Female Trees

Lastly, male trees are less messy overall compared to their female counterparts. As previously stated, female trees can produce a lot of fruit, which can create litter and messes on the street. Moreover, female trees can also shed leaves and bark more often than male trees, which can create maintenance issues for cities and towns. By planting male trees, cities and towns can reduce the need for pruning, debris removal, and cleaning services, saving them time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

Overall, there are several reasons why cities and towns opt to plant male trees instead of female trees. Male trees produce less of a mess, are more resilient against disease, and don't produce allergens. Moreover, they can be less of a maintenance hassle for urban workers. While female trees do have their benefits, such as providing shade and producing fruit, male trees' benefits outweigh the drawbacks in their use in urban environments. That said, the type and gender of the trees planted will depend on the city or town's specific needs and environment.