This need for more or less sun has to do with the trees’ photosynthesis. Photosynthesis produces food for the tree. … Most trees require plenty of sun. A tree in full shade, one that receives two or fewer hours of sun, may struggle to survive as this small amount of sunlight will inhibit the photosynthesis process.

Why is sunlight important to plants?

Plants rely on the energy in sunlight to produce the nutrients they need. But sometimes they absorb more energy than they can use, and that excess can damage critical proteins. To protect themselves, they convert the excess energy into heat and send it back out.

What part of the tree needs sunlight?

Trees, like all green plants, create the food they need to live and grow through photosynr thesis, a process that occurs in their leaves. To manufacture food (in the form of glucose and other sugars), a tree needs energy from sunlight, carbon dioxide from the air, and water.