Introduction

Have you ever noticed that when municipal projects such as road widening or park expansion require tree planting, only male trees are being planted? This has been a common practice for many years, but have you ever wondered why? In this article, we will explore why we only plant male trees.

Maintenance

The number one reason why we plant male trees is maintenance. Male trees produce less fruit and seeds than female trees. The leaves and flowers of female trees produce a lot of debris, which can be costly and time-consuming to clean up. On the other hand, male trees produce less debris and require less maintenance, making them more practical for large-scale landscaping projects.

Allergies

Another reason why male trees are being planted is that female trees produce allergens, such as pollen. This can be an issue for people who suffer from allergies. Planting only male trees can reduce or even eliminate the amount of pollen in the air. This makes it easier for people with allergies to breathe comfortably, especially during the spring season when pollen levels are high.

Cost

Male trees are also significantly cheaper than female trees. This is because female trees require more resources and care when they grow, as they produce seeds and fruit. Female trees also have a shorter lifespan compared to male trees. This means that they need to be replaced more frequently, which can add up to the cost of maintenance. By planting male trees, municipalities can save costs on maintenance and replacement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting only male trees is a common practice utilized by many municipalities because they are low maintenance, produce less debris, and are cheaper than female trees. While female trees have their benefits, such as producing fruit and seeds that are important for wildlife, they can be impractical for large-scale landscaping projects. Municipalities will continue to plant male trees until there is evidence to suggest otherwise.