The upper layer of branches and leaves that forms the crown of a tree or shrub, where most light capture, growth, and photosynthesis occur.
The canopy is the visible top portion of a tree or shrub. It collects sunlight through its leaves and supports much of the plant's growth, flowering, and fruit production.
A healthy canopy allows light and air to move through the plant. When growth becomes too dense, interior branches may receive less sunlight, reducing vigor and increasing the risk of plant disease and pest problems.
The size and shape of the canopy also determine how much shade a tree creates and how much light reaches nearby plants.
Canopy health has a direct impact on flowering, fruit production, and overall plant performance. An overcrowded canopy can reduce airflow and light penetration, while a properly maintained canopy encourages stronger growth, healthier foliage, and better harvests from a fruit tree.