How Many Trees Do You Need for a 5-Star Island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons?
Achieving a 5-star island rating in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ultimate goal for many players. It signifies a meticulously crafted and thriving island, recognized by the ever-observant Isabelle. Among the many elements contributing to this prestigious rating, the number of trees plays a significant role. But how many trees are exactly needed for a 5-star paradise? Let’s dive into the details.
The Ideal Tree Count for a 5-Star Island
Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a specific “magic number” of trees that guarantees a 5-star rating. Instead, it’s about striking the right balance within the overall ecosystem of your island. However, based on community findings and game mechanics, a crucial point to note is the maximum tree limit is 220. Going over this limit will hinder your island’s progress, and may also affect your game performance.
While not a hard rule, aiming for around 190 to 210 trees is generally considered ideal to comfortably meet the tree criteria for a 5-star rating. The article you provided says that “According to what I`ve been playing around with 220 trees is the max. You need I think at least 190 trees.” This is in line with what the community has reported after extensive testing. Remember that this total includes all mature hardwood, cedar, fruit trees, and bamboo. Critically, baby or non-adult trees do not count towards this total.
It is important to understand that while trees are part of the requirements for reaching 5 stars, it isn’t only about the number of trees. Other requirements have to be fulfilled to get your island in tiptop shape for Isabelle. You must achieve at least 665 points in the Development category and 450 in the Scenery category to be awarded the prestigious 5-star status. Trees contribute to the “Scenery” score.
Beyond Just Numbers: Diversity and Balance
The focus should also be on the diversity and distribution of trees across your island. Avoid clumping all trees in one area. Instead, distribute them throughout your island, incorporating them into different landscape designs. You should consider having a good number of fruit trees to gather daily resources, and other types of trees to create a visually engaging environment. This balance is much more effective in pushing your scenery score than just having a huge amount of trees in a small area.
Additionally, consider that the game has a limit of 17 trees that can be harvested for bells and furniture. So while having lots of trees is helpful, if you plan to farm resources, you’ll need to make sure those 17 are accessible. 10 of these trees usually have bells and 5 usually have bees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Trees and Island Ratings
1. What kind of trees count towards the 220 limit?
All mature trees, including hardwood, cedar, fruit (including coconuts), and bamboo count towards the 220 limit. Baby trees do not count until they reach maturity.
2. Can I have too many trees on my island?
Yes! The hard cap is 220 trees. Exceeding this limit will hinder your island rating and could even impact game performance.
3. How many trees should I have for a 3-star island?
While there isn’t a specific number, a good starting point for a 3-star island is having at least 100 plants (including trees) and 200 flowers, along with at least 7 villagers and a tidy island. Focus on a balanced mix of trees and other plants.
4. How do trees affect my island’s scenery rating?
Trees are a part of your island’s “Scenery” score. A well-distributed number of trees, along with other decorative elements like flowers, furniture, and paths will lead to a better score.
5. Do tree stumps count towards the tree limit?
No, tree stumps do not count towards the 220 tree limit. Once a tree is chopped, it’s no longer considered a tree for the limit count.
6. Can I plant unlimited trees in Animal Crossing?
No, you cannot. There is a strict limit of 220 mature trees on your island.
7. What are the ideal tree spots on my island?
Ideal tree spots include lining paths, surrounding homes, and filling any open areas. Consider balancing the different tree types in a visually pleasing way.
8. Do trees grow back if I chop them down?
No, trees do not grow back once they are chopped down in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. They will only leave a stump until you dig them up.
9. How do I know how many trees I have?
Unfortunately, there is no in-game counter for the number of trees. You have to manually count them. However, after a little experience, you’ll be able to generally gauge where you are.
10. Is it worth cutting down trees on my island?
Yes, chopping down trees is a necessary part of the game for getting wood resources. You should however be mindful of the total amount you have and avoid cutting down too many if you are pursuing a 5-star island.
11. Do bamboo and bushes count as trees in terms of the limit?
Bamboo does count towards the 220-tree limit. Bushes also count towards the scenery, but they are not included in the 220-tree limit.
12. Can I lose my 5-star rating if I remove trees after achieving it?
While your island rating can decrease for not keeping up your island, you won’t lose your DIY for the Golden Watering Can, or your access to the Lily of the Valley flowers. You will keep the 5 star rewards once you’ve reached that rating.
13. What does planting flowers have to do with trees and a 5-star rating?
While trees are important, they are only one component of your island’s overall score. Flowers play a big role, especially hybrid ones, in raising your scenery score as well.
14. Can clutter affect my island’s star rating?
Yes, too much furniture or dropped items on the ground will negatively impact your rating. Avoid having over 15 dropped items on the ground, or cluttering an area with more than 45 items per block. You also need to make sure you pick up all your tree branches and wasp nests.
15. What is the reward for getting a 5-star island?
Reaching a 5-star island rating gives you the DIY recipe for the Golden Watering Can and spawns Lily of the Valley flowers on your island. Lily of the Valley will keep spawning if you maintain a 5-star rating.
Conclusion
Achieving a 5-star island in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a combination of many elements, and the right number of trees is one of them. While the maximum tree limit is 220, aiming for around 190 to 210 mature trees, with a balance of different types and proper distribution across your island, is key. Remember to pair this with other landscaping elements like flowers, paths, and furniture to create the perfect island paradise. Happy decorating!