When creating native forests, the goal isn’t just to plant trees—it’s to establish a thriving ecosystem that grows and sustains itself over time. One key milestone in this journey is achieving canopy cover.
What is Canopy Cover?
Canopy cover refers to the stage when trees grow tall and broad enough for their branches to touch, forming a continuous layer of foliage. This isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a crucial step in the evolution of a healthy forest.
Why Canopy Cover Matters
Weed Suppression: A closed canopy blocks sunlight from reaching the ground, naturally reducing weed growth and preventing invasive plants from taking over.
Wind Protection: Trees in a dense canopy support and shield each other from harsh winds and weather, allowing them to grow stronger and taller.
Shading Grass: The shade from the canopy suppresses grass growth, creating ideal conditions for second-generation trees like kahikatea and rimu to establish themselves.
Ecosystem Development: Canopy cover fosters biodiversity by providing shelter and habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
A Real-Life Example
We recently revisited a site we planted four years ago. Today, the trees stand tall, their branches touching to form a lush canopy. In just another year or two, they’ll completely shade the ground below, paving the way for slower-growing, long-lived species to take root beneath them.
The Path to Canopy Cover
Achieving canopy cover doesn’t happen by accident—it takes thoughtful planning and care:
Tree Spacing: Planting at the right density (e.g., two-meter spacings) ensures that trees grow together while having enough room to establish strong roots and trunks.
Species Selection: Fast-growing pioneer species like Mānuka and Kānuka are ideal for quickly forming a canopy. They also create the microclimate needed for more sensitive, long-lived species to thrive later.
Maintenance: Early maintenance, such as weed control and proper spacing, ensures young trees have the best chance of success.
Building a Forest for the Future
Canopy closure is a major milestone, but it’s just one step in the journey toward a fully developed native forest. Over time, these pioneer species will give way to taller, slower-growing giants like Kahikatea and Rimu, creating a multi-layered, biodiverse forest that can sustain itself for generations.
Ready to Start Your Forest?
If you’re planning a native planting project and want to ensure long-term success, we’re here to help. From selecting the right species to achieving that all-important canopy cover, we provide expertise at every step of the way.
