ISA Certified Arborist Practice Exam

What are "tree shelters" used for?

1. To increase sunlight exposure

2. To facilitate growth and protect young trees

3. To enhance root development

4. To create a nutrient-rich environment

The correct answer is: To facilitate growth and protect young trees

Tree shelters are primarily used to facilitate growth and protect young trees. These structures, which can be made from plastic or other materials, are designed to create a microclimate that can enhance survival rates for seedlings and young trees. They help shield young plants from herbivores and harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds and intense sunlight. By providing a more controlled environment, tree shelters can significantly increase the likelihood that young trees will establish themselves successfully in their new location. They can promote better growth by reducing competition from weeds and allowing for more consistent moisture retention around the base of the tree. Other options, while related to tree and plant growth, do not accurately capture the primary function of tree shelters. Sunlight exposure, root development, and nutrient enrichment are important factors in the growth of trees, but tree shelters specifically address the challenges faced by young trees in their formative stages.