ISA Certified Arborist Practice Exam

Which of the following factors does NOT indicate tree health?

1. Presence of bark beetles

2. Color of new growth foliage

3. Tree height

4. Number of leaves present

The correct answer is: Tree height

The factor that does not indicate tree health is tree height. While height can provide some information about a tree's growth potential and age, it does not directly reflect the overall health of the tree. A tree may be tall but still exhibit signs of stress, disease, or other health issues that negatively impact its vitality. In contrast, the presence of bark beetles is a direct indicator of potential health issues, as these pests can damage the tree and lead to decline. The color of new growth foliage is also an important indicator; vibrant, green leaves typically signify a healthy tree, while discoloration may indicate stress or nutritional deficiencies. The number of leaves present can show how well a tree is photosynthesizing and its overall vigor. Therefore, while tree height might give some insight into growth patterns, it does not serve as a reliable metric for assessing a tree's health status.