Question

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planting. this will dictate the mature size of the tree and its needed planting space. make sure you purchase a quality tree with a healthy root system (10 inches of container width per inch of trunk diameter at six inches above the soil line). dig the hole to the depth of the root ball, and no deeper. use native soil to backfill and wood chips for mulch. staking should not be needed unless the trunk is over three inches in diameter.

based on the documents shown, hardiness refers to the:
a. average trunk strength of the tree species.
b. likelihood that the tree will grow well.
c. average crown diameter of the tree species.
d. likelihood that the tree will provide the needed shade.
e. percentage of solar heat absorbed by the tree.

Explanation:

To determine the meaning of "hardiness" in this context (tree planting), we analyze each option:

• Option A: Trunk strength relates to staking (mentioned), not hardiness. Eliminate A.
• Option B: Hardiness in horticulture refers to a plant’s ability to grow well (survive/thrive) in its environment. The text focuses on planting conditions for healthy growth, so this fits.
• Option C: Crown diameter is about mature size (planting space), not hardiness. Eliminate C.
• Option D: Shade provision isn’t discussed in the text. Eliminate D.
• Option E: Solar heat absorption isn’t mentioned. Eliminate E.

Answer:

B. likelihood that the tree will grow well.