Measuring the canopy of a tree is a simple task that helps determine how far the tree’s branches spread. The canopy refers to the area covered by the outermost branches — imagine the shape of the shadow the tree would cast on the ground on a sunny day. You don’t need specialist equipment to do this, just a measuring tape or the ability to count your steps.
Start by standing at the base of the tree trunk. Choose a direction — for example, facing towards the edge of your garden — and walk straight out until you’re standing directly beneath the edge of the furthest-reaching branch. This is the outer edge of the canopy in that direction. Measure the distance between that point and the trunk using a tape measure if you have one. If not, count your steps. A large adult pace is roughly one metre, which is close enough for a simple estimate.
Repeat this process in at least one or two other directions — for example, to the left and to the right of the tree — to get an idea of how the canopy spreads in different directions. Trees often have uneven canopies, especially if they’ve been pruned or are growing near fences, buildings or other trees.
Once you’ve measured in two or three directions, take the largest distance as your estimate for the canopy radius — that is, how far the branches extend from the trunk. This is the figure you can use when asked about canopy size. You don’t need to be exact, and it’s fine to round to the nearest metre.
If you can’t access part of the canopy because it’s over a neighbour’s property or a fence, just make your best visual estimate. What matters most is giving a reasonable picture of how far the tree spreads. Don’t worry about tiny twigs or single stray branches — you’re trying to measure the general spread of the main leafy canopy.