saplings

Saplings are young trees that have progressed beyond the seedling stage but have not reached maturity. In forestry and horticulture, the term typically refers to trees that are several months to a few years old, and often 1 to 3 meters tall, depending on species and site conditions. Saplings begin to develop a more robust root system and stem compared with seedlings.

Growth rate varies by species, site fertility, and moisture. Saplings require adequate light; some species are shade-tolerant. They compete with weeds; crowding reduces height growth; thinning improves performance. They are vulnerable to drought, frost, pests, and herbivory.

Saplings are established through natural regeneration or artificial planting from nursery stock. In forestry, nurseries produce seedlings or transplants that are later planted in the field; after planting, managers may weed, irrigate, protect from browsing, and perform thinning to reduce competition and improve form.

Saplings are a transitional stage in forest regeneration, enabling sustainable timber production and habitat creation. They contribute to carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, and biodiversity. In urban environments, saplings are used in landscaping and reforestation projects.

The exact age or size that defines a sapling varies by region and practice; some sources consider small but established individuals as saplings, while others reserve the term for trees that are still clearly juvenile.