To fully understand and appreciate trees, we as humans must slow down and attune to ‘tree time.’ It’s easy to forget the old majestic Oak once began as a small sapling, slowly adapting to environmental challenges throughout its life. High winds, drought, site changes, and pest issues all influence the way trees grow and thrive in their unique environment. However, when the stress on a tree overwhelms its natural ability to adapt, defects and weakness can form within the tree, often hidden under the bark or high in the crown. Unlike humans, trees do not heal their wounds; instead, they seal them off, preserving (and often hiding) evidence for the duration of its life. By uncovering the tree’s history, we can gather a clear snapshot of what the tree has gone through and forecast its future. Continue Reading