How long does it take for a tree to grow? The answer is that it depends on many factors, from the tree itself to the growing conditions. In this article, Urban Jacks Tree Service, your go-to tree service in Malvern, explains more about these factors.
When Will My Sapling Mature?
The short answer is that maturation can take from 10 to 40 years or longer. You’ll know your tree’s all grown up when it stops growing taller. The timeline for when upward growth stops depends on the following factors.
Location
The area you plant the tree in makes a difference. More specifically, we look at how high the area is above sea level in arboriculture. The higher the elevation, the cooler the temperatures tend to be. This shortens the growing season, which curtails your tree’s growth.
So, if you live on the coast where the weather’s warmer, your tree might grow two or three feet a year. Further inland, like in the mountains, the answer to, “How long does it take for a tree to grow?” is less than a foot a year.
Climate
The weather you experience also impacts your tree’s growth. If there’s enough sunlight, water, and warm weather, the tree grows faster. Plants naturally grow faster in the summer than in the winter because there’s more heat and light.
To get the best results, plant a tree native to your region or an area similar. For example, a tree that does well in a tropical climate won’t do well in Malvern because our winters are too cold. When choosing any plants, consider the climate in the country or area they originate in. Outside of such temperatures, they’re unlikely to thrive.
Species
The type of tree influences the answer to, “How long does it take a tree to grow?” Some trees shoot for the sky straight away, while others take their time. Pines and some species of spruce grow very quickly in comparison to olive trees, for example. That said, you need to provide optimal growing conditions, or even the most aggressive growers will struggle.
Supporting Good Growth
Would you like to give your sapling the best possible support? Research the following tree care topics to get it right.
Watering
How much moisture does your tree need, and how much is it getting? If there’s not enough rain, you need to drench your tree’s roots. However, be careful not to overdo it; you don’t want to drown the tree.
The advantage of choosing a native plant is that it can usually withstand drought stress better.
Fertilizer
You should perform regular soil tests to make sure your tree has all the nutrients it needs. You can also dig in organic compost from time to time to replenish the earth and aerate the soil. Not sure where to start? Give us a call, and we’ll help.
Mulch
Mulch regulates the soil temperature and water levels, smothers weeds, and adds nutrients. It also helps to combat soil erosion by absorbing the impact of the rain. The water then trickles down into the ground.
Mulch can also make a pretty feature. Start layering it about two inches from the trunk and extend it until the outer drip line. You can use tree bark or even gravel for its aesthetic appeal. You should have a layer of around two to three inches thick.
Contact Our Team Today!
Now that you can answer, “How long does it take for a tree to grow?” would you like to skip to the head of the class? Call Urban Jacks Tree Service at 501-547-4018 for advice on how to find the best low-maintenance tree for your yard.
