All of us have climbed a tree in our lifetime – and maybe some of us have even broken an arm trying. We see that low-hanging branch, the sturdy one that we know will hold us and we go for it! But, have you ever stopped to think about how the structure we want to climb is also critical to helping the tree withstand strong winds and challenging weather events? Probably not.
A strong, wind-resistant tree has deep, extensive roots, strong trunks, and flexible wood that bends under wind pressure instead of breaking. The health of the tree – enough sun, water and space to grow – helps trees deepen their root systems and maintain strength even in warm, dry months.
This is why the forest health/restorative thinning work we are doing on the Preserve is so important. We want each tree spaced far enough apart so they don’t compete for water and sunlight, but still close enough to be partners when strong winds blow. Together, they buffer one another, swaying in unison and protecting the base of each tree to prevent uprooting, particularly in heavy rain events.
A strong base is key, but, the leaves also play a starring role in protecting trees in wind events. The leaves of trees deal with strong winds by adjusting their configurations in order to reduce exposure and limit flutter. In other words, they slow the wind impact despite their apparent fragility. How cool is that?
The next time you are walking in your neighborhood, your local park, or on the Preserve, take some time to look at the trees and their structure and how each tree works to the benefit of the other.
– Katha Miller-Winder, President