By Alistair Johnston
A tree is always seeking to maintain a balance between the area of canopy and the roots. Although the canopy provides the important role of carbohydrate production, the root system is as vital for its function of anchorage (i.e. supporting the tree), absorption (i.e. the uptake of water and minerals), conduction (i.e. the transfer of water and minerals to the stem and canopy), and storage (i.e. the retention of food during the dormant season for early spring use).
Read the full article: Growing Trees in the Urban Jungle