Soil Moisture Guide

All trees need water to grow; however, the amount of water needed varies greatly between species. Some trees can suffocate from too much water while others die from too little. The following table defines the significance of each soil moisture level in Mighty Trees:

H
y
d
r
i
c

9

Trees with High Flood Tolerance that can endure flooding for at least 25% of the growing season [Swamps].

8

Trees with Some Flood Tolerance that can endure occasional prolonged flooding or frequent short term flooding [Swamp & Lake Borders, Lower River Floodplains].

7

Trees with Questionable Flood Tolerance but frequently found next to streams [Stream borders, Upper Floodplains].

M
e
s
i
c

6

Trees with No Flood Tolerance and not found along streams [Moist to wet forests].

5

Ideal growing conditions for most trees, ample but not excessive moisture [Moist forests].

4

Trees with Little to No Drought Tolerance [Uplands of moist forests, Fields].

X
e
r
i
c

3

Trees with Some Drought Tolerance [Upper Slopes, Shaded Ridges].

2

Trees with Moderate to High Drought Tolerance [High Uplands, Mid Sand Dunes].

1

Trees with High Drought Tolerance that are uncommon in moist areas [Upper Sand Dunes, Rocky Bluffs].

Hydric = Wet Soil       Mesic = Moist Soil       Xeric = Dry Soil