Lately we’ve focused some of our efforts in informing you about signs and symptoms of certain tree disease and insect issues, and how these issues can usually be spotted just by looking at a tree. However, we know that all of our readers may not be experts in all things trees, so today we thought it would be a good idea to share some helpful terms with you in regards to the anatomy of a tree. Below are a few terms and their descriptions, courtesy of the Arbor Day Foundation.
Outer Bark – The outer bark (labeled A in the photo to the right) is the tree’s protection from the outside world. Continually renewed from within, it helps keep out moisture in the rain, and prevents the tree from losing moisture when the air is dry. It insulates against cold and heat and wards off insect enemies.
Inner Bark – The inner bark (labeled B), or “phloem,” pipeline through which food is passed to the rest of the tree. It lives for only a short time, then dies and turns to cork to become part of the protective outer bark.
Sapwood – Sapwood (labeled D) is the tree’s pipeline for water moving up to the leaves. Sapwood is new wood. As newer rings of sapwood are laid down, inner cells lose their vitality and turn to heartwood.
These are just a few terms that will help you know more about the make-up of the trees in your yard. You can find more on the Arbor Day Foundation website.
And for all of your tree care and maintenance needs, count on Cartwright Tree Care. Visit our website to learn more about our services.
Photo credit: ArborDay.org