There is a lot of mystery surrounding trees, including how long they take to grow. Plant owners often wonder how long it takes for a newly planted tree to become full-grown.
It is impossible to calculate the exact life span of a single tree. That depends on varying factors and environmental conditions that can affect the tree’s health. However, we can estimate how long it takes for a tree to grow by examining the factors that affect a tree’s growth rate.
What are the variables that influence the rate of tree growth?
Trees need care and attention to grow well. Tree trimming experts in Bellingham, WA, will help you care for your tree’s health. The following factors affect how long it takes for a tree to grow.
The Species of Tree
Tree species vary in longevity. Some trees live for a few decades, while others survive for hundreds of years.
Here are a few examples of species’ lifespan:
- White oak lives up to 300 years.
- Redbud trees live 20 to 30 years.
- Boxelders live up to 75 years
- Bradford pear lives 20 to 30 years.
- Mexican plum lives up to 40 years.
- Eve’s Necklace lives up to 50 years.
- Crape myrtles live up to 60 years
- Cucumber trees live up to 80 years
- Cedar elm lives 100+ years.
- Blue spruce live up 150 years.
- Live oak lives up to 300 years.
- Pecan lives up to 300 years.
Changes in Climate Conditions
Trees growing in mountainous regions take several decades to reach maturity, depending on climate and water resources. A tree that reaches maturity in a tropical environment grows faster and can take about 30 years, whereas a tree that matures in cooler weather may take a hundred years.
The Location
The location has a significant influence on a tree’s growth rate. Tropical trees live longer but grow more slowly than trees in other climates.
Their slower growth rate makes them better suited to their low environment. Trees growing in tropical settings will need more water than in non-tropical environments because tropical climates receive more precipitation during the year.
If we transplant a tree from a tropical climate into a non-tropical climate, it may lose its leaves and cease to grow during the winter months.
Soil Quality
Soil is a complex mixture of many things, including decaying organic matter, minerals that provide nutrients and water, and pores that supply moisture for seeds to grow. Trees in harsh environments, such as the mountains or areas with low precipitation, grow more slowly than trees in less extreme environments.
A planted seed will not grow in an incompatible climate; the species much match the environment it is planted in. Healthy soil then allows tree roots to absorb water for nutrients. A tree in soil that is neither moist nor well-drained has a greater chance of survival than a tree in dry or overly wet soil.
When Does a Tree Produce?
We consider a tree a mature specimen once it has reached over 10 feet in height. Mature trees can bear fruit. The gestation period for certain fruit-bearing trees, such as oaks and pines, can take over 20 years.
The growth of a tree and when it starts producing depends on many factors. You can improve the health of your trees by giving them well-drained soil and offering them optimal growing conditions.
Our staff of highly trained arborists provides comprehensive services to ensure the health and safety of your trees. Contact our emergency tree services by Timber Tree Service for a consultation and learn about our services for maintaining the health of your trees.
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