TREE EDUCATION

Tree with and without leaves

Anatomy Of A Tree

Apr 12th 2017

In order to understand the services commonly provided by arborists, you must first understand the different parts that make up a tree.

Roots

Roots allow trees to absorb water and minerals from the soil. They extend out from the tree approximately two to four times the length of the tree crown. Surprisingly, though roots are responsible for anchoring the tree in the ground, they are located approximately only three feet beneath the surface. By carefully performing root zone therapy, your arborist in Gainesville, FL, will remove soil from around the roots to look for significant issues such as girdling roots, brown roots or black roots in order to provide you with a solution. This process will also help to aerate the soil and remove any debris.

Leaves

Leaves are important for their ability to perform photosynthesis. They make food for the rest of the tree, release oxygen into the surrounding air and reduce wind resistance. Leaves can often indicate issues within your trees such as disease, pests or drought. Your arborist services will include careful inspection of the quality of your leaves so that a solution can be found.

Trunk

The trunk is composed of five different layers: outer bark, inner bark, cambium cell layer, sapwood, and heartwood. Each layer has a specific function that ensures the tree is healthy. Because the trunk is so integral in the way a tree functions, it is important to make sure it is healthy. Your Gainesville arborist will look for harmful pests, which may have infiltrated the surface and provide techniques to protect the trunk from freezing temperatures.

Branches

Branches grow out to create the crown of the tree and support the growth of leaves and fruit. They are also useful for providing leaves with water. If branches are left to grow on their own, they can become too heavy and weaken the tree or endanger surrounding structures. Experienced Florida tree trimmers can regularly trim and remove diseased branches to ensure your tree’s stability.