ISA Certified Arborist Practice Exam

What does "defoliation" mean?

1. The loss of leaves from a tree

2. Enhancement of tree growth

3. Increase in tree height

4. Accumulation of soil nutrients

The correct answer is: The loss of leaves from a tree

Defoliation specifically refers to the loss of leaves from a tree. This can occur due to various factors, including environmental stress, disease, insect infestations, or seasonal changes. Understanding defoliation is crucial for arborists as it can indicate the health of a tree and show whether it may need care or intervention. In contrast, the other options do not pertain to the same context. Enhancing tree growth refers to practices that improve the vitality and development of a tree, which is unrelated to the loss of leaves. Similarly, an increase in tree height focuses on vertical growth, while the accumulation of soil nutrients involves the soil condition rather than the foliage of the tree itself. Thus, the definition of defoliation is distinct and highlights a specific phenomenon important to tree health and management.