As humans, we often have a tendency to attribute human-like qualities to the world around us. Thus, it’s not surprising that we refer to a particular phenomenon observed among trees as “Crown Shyness.” We envision that the leaves of adjacent trees hesitate to extend and make contact with one another. But what precisely is crown shyness, and what causes it? Is it a concern for your trees and overall landscaping? Here’s what you need to know.
It Occurs In Some Species
As you gaze upward through the canopy, witnessing the tree tops weaving intricate patterns to ensure they don’t touch, the phenomenon can be a delightful sight. Crown shyness occurs only among specific species, which explains why other forest landscapes develop a dense canopy that casts shade on the forest floor. Lodgepole pine, black mangrove, camphor trees, and eucalyptus are among the trees that exhibit this crown shyness. Additionally, it can occasionally arise when various tree species are cultivated in proximity to one another.
It Optimizes Light forPhotosynthesis
Certain tree specialists suggest that this phenomenon stems from the idea that trees require sunlight for photosynthesis. By preventing contact with adjacent leaves, the surrounding trees can preserve the optimal sunlight levels essential for healthy growth. According to this hypothesis, it is thought that trees can detect nearby leaves through the way light is backscattered across the canopy. They strategically avoid contact to ensure maximum exposure to sunlight.
It’s Beneficial for the Trees
Ultimately, despite the introverted connotation of its name, crown shyness is not an indication of poor health among these trees. Rather, it is advantageous for their growth and natural development.
In addition to providing trees with ample access to sunlight, it offers several other benefits. For instance, it is thought that crown shyness helps to prevent the proliferation of pests that could harm certain species. Moreover, it reduces the transmission of diseases, fungi, and bacteria. While these threats can be detrimental to individual trees, their spread across a large group would be particularly catastrophic.
Keep Your Trees Healthy
While you might not observe crown shyness in your own trees, there are several important factors to consider. Proper tree maintenance is not only beneficial for the health of your trees, but it can also be crucial for your home and those in your neighborhood. Promptly removing dead branches, tackling any disease or insect infestations, and ensuring that root systems are healthy and not affecting your property are vital steps in evaluating the overall health of your trees.
If you have trees that need attention, give us a call or fill out this form, to schedule a free evaluation.
