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3 Crown Theory

As a tree ages the crown changes. A maturing tree will have three crowns. Generally speaking - You can feel a difference between the texture of the three areas. They function under different conditions. When the temperature is above 40 degrees f. photosynthesis begins. Here is the theory - When the temperature is around 40 degrees f. in a maturing tree #3 functions. As the temperature raises toward 70 degrees f. the #2 crown functions (GENERALLY SPEAKING). When the temperature is around 90 degrees f. the #1 crown functions.

It was in the past, a common treatment was to "thin" the tree by removing the inner crown or crowns. It was thought, this would let the wind through without wind injury. Actually a palm tree stands tall in the wind, by the fronds throwing the wind off guard. The same with the inner crowns of angiosperms and gymnosperms. So this is a treatment of the past, i.e., thinning and removing crowns #1 and #2. Not suggesting its not still done, but not an acceptable treatment in MODERN ARBORICULTURE.