CNMI Arborist Certification Exam
Practice Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026
Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the primary purpose of proper tree pruning?
A. Increase fruit size immediately
B. Remove all branches annually
C. Improve tree health and structure
D. Stop all future growth
Answer: C
Rationale: Proper pruning enhances tree structure, removes dead or
diseased wood, and improves overall health rather than simply
controlling size or forcing production.
2. Which tool is most appropriate for cutting small branches up to 2 cm
in diameter?
A. Chainsaw
B. Axe
C. Hand pruners (secateurs)
D. Brush cutter
Answer: C
Rationale: Hand pruners are designed for precise cutting of small-
diameter branches and minimize tissue damage.
3. What is the best time to prune most tree species?
A. During peak flowering
B. During dormancy
C. During drought stress
D. At midday in summer
Answer: B
, Rationale: Dormant season pruning reduces stress, minimizes pest
exposure, and promotes strong spring growth.
4. What is the main function of tree roots?
A. Photosynthesis
B. Water evaporation
C. Anchorage and nutrient absorption
D. Flower production
Answer: C
Rationale: Roots stabilize the tree and absorb water and nutrients
from the soil.
5. What is a common sign of root rot?
A. Bright green leaves
B. Increased flowering
C. Wilting despite moist soil
D. Rapid fruit production
Answer: C
Rationale: Root rot damages the root system, preventing water
uptake even when soil is wet.
6. What is the proper term for removing a dead branch?
A. Topping
B. Pollarding
C. Sanitary pruning
D. Layering
Answer: C
Rationale: Sanitary pruning involves removing dead, diseased, or
damaged branches to prevent decay spread.
7. Which pest is commonly associated with tree leaf damage?
A. Earthworm
B. Aphid
C. Bee
D. Ladybird beetle
Answer: B
Rationale: Aphids feed on plant sap and cause curling, yellowing, and
distortion of leaves.
, 8. What is the function of cambium in trees?
A. Water storage
B. Growth of new xylem and phloem
C. Leaf production
D. Seed dispersal
Answer: B
Rationale: The cambium layer produces new vascular tissues
responsible for tree growth in diameter.
9. What is topping a tree?
A. Proper shaping technique
B. Cutting main branches to stubs
C. Root trimming
D. Fertilizing method
Answer: B
Rationale: Topping is an improper practice that weakens trees and
leads to decay and structural failure.
10. Which nutrient is most important for leaf growth?
A. Phosphorus
B. Potassium
C. Calcium
D. Nitrogen
Answer: D
Rationale: Nitrogen promotes leafy growth and chlorophyll
production.
11. What is a sign of nutrient deficiency in trees?
A. Dark green leaves
B. Yellowing leaves (chlorosis)
C. Strong root growth
D. Increased bark thickness
Answer: B
Rationale: Chlorosis often indicates lack of essential nutrients like
nitrogen or iron.
12. What is the purpose of mulch?
A. Increase soil erosion
B. Conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Practice Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026
Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the primary purpose of proper tree pruning?
A. Increase fruit size immediately
B. Remove all branches annually
C. Improve tree health and structure
D. Stop all future growth
Answer: C
Rationale: Proper pruning enhances tree structure, removes dead or
diseased wood, and improves overall health rather than simply
controlling size or forcing production.
2. Which tool is most appropriate for cutting small branches up to 2 cm
in diameter?
A. Chainsaw
B. Axe
C. Hand pruners (secateurs)
D. Brush cutter
Answer: C
Rationale: Hand pruners are designed for precise cutting of small-
diameter branches and minimize tissue damage.
3. What is the best time to prune most tree species?
A. During peak flowering
B. During dormancy
C. During drought stress
D. At midday in summer
Answer: B
, Rationale: Dormant season pruning reduces stress, minimizes pest
exposure, and promotes strong spring growth.
4. What is the main function of tree roots?
A. Photosynthesis
B. Water evaporation
C. Anchorage and nutrient absorption
D. Flower production
Answer: C
Rationale: Roots stabilize the tree and absorb water and nutrients
from the soil.
5. What is a common sign of root rot?
A. Bright green leaves
B. Increased flowering
C. Wilting despite moist soil
D. Rapid fruit production
Answer: C
Rationale: Root rot damages the root system, preventing water
uptake even when soil is wet.
6. What is the proper term for removing a dead branch?
A. Topping
B. Pollarding
C. Sanitary pruning
D. Layering
Answer: C
Rationale: Sanitary pruning involves removing dead, diseased, or
damaged branches to prevent decay spread.
7. Which pest is commonly associated with tree leaf damage?
A. Earthworm
B. Aphid
C. Bee
D. Ladybird beetle
Answer: B
Rationale: Aphids feed on plant sap and cause curling, yellowing, and
distortion of leaves.
, 8. What is the function of cambium in trees?
A. Water storage
B. Growth of new xylem and phloem
C. Leaf production
D. Seed dispersal
Answer: B
Rationale: The cambium layer produces new vascular tissues
responsible for tree growth in diameter.
9. What is topping a tree?
A. Proper shaping technique
B. Cutting main branches to stubs
C. Root trimming
D. Fertilizing method
Answer: B
Rationale: Topping is an improper practice that weakens trees and
leads to decay and structural failure.
10. Which nutrient is most important for leaf growth?
A. Phosphorus
B. Potassium
C. Calcium
D. Nitrogen
Answer: D
Rationale: Nitrogen promotes leafy growth and chlorophyll
production.
11. What is a sign of nutrient deficiency in trees?
A. Dark green leaves
B. Yellowing leaves (chlorosis)
C. Strong root growth
D. Increased bark thickness
Answer: B
Rationale: Chlorosis often indicates lack of essential nutrients like
nitrogen or iron.
12. What is the purpose of mulch?
A. Increase soil erosion
B. Conserve moisture and suppress weeds
