maturity (whole tree)

The stages in the life cycle of a tree. Young or juvenile trees have not yet reached 1/3 of their expected mature height. They are generally growing vigorously and have high apical dominance. Early-mature trees are between 1/3 and 2/3 of expected mature height. Mature trees are close to their full height and crown size, these dimensions being determined by species and site factors. Late-mature trees are still close to their full height and crown size while main-stem diameter (which by now is large) increases more slowly. Senescence (‘verging on or characteristic of old age’) is associated with crown retrenchment.



This definition is abridged from A – Z of tree terms: A companion to British arboriculture.
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