🍃 Tree Leaves Calculator
Use canopy diameter and an estimated leaf density to approximate total leaf counts for urban forestry or educational projects.
Broadleaf trees often range 150–300 leaves per square meter of canopy.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure canopy spread
Take dripline diameter across two directions and average for accuracy.
Choose leaf density
Base on species-specific studies or default to 200 leaves per square meter.
Interpret results
Use estimates for carbon sequestration projects, classroom activities, or tree health assessments.
Formula
Leaves ≈ π × (Diameter ÷ 2)2 × Leaf Density
Diameter is converted to meters; leaf density is in leaves per square meter. Adjust the density factor for seasonal leaf-off conditions or conifers.
Full Description
Estimating leaf counts helps quantify transpiration, photosynthesis capacity, and ecological services. Although real leaf numbers vary widely, canopy area provides a quick proxy for order-of-magnitude comparisons.
For research-grade assessments, combine this calculation with leaf area index (LAI) measurements or photo sampling techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do conifers follow the same density?
Needle-bearing trees often have higher leaf (needle) densities—adjust the density parameter accordingly.
How accurate is this estimate?
Expect large variability. Use it as a rough approximation unless you have species-specific data.
Can I use crown area from GIS data?
Yes. Enter canopy diameter derived from aerial imagery or plot the equivalent circular diameter from mapped area.
What about partial canopy loss?
Reduce the leaf density or canopy diameter to reflect missing branches or pruning.