The Bark Structure of a Tree

The outer protective covering tree trunks is the bark. The bark is a useful characteristic for tree identification because the form and structure differs greatly from tree to tree.

The bark has two layers:
Outer Bark- It is made up of dead cells which is usually thick.
Inner Bark- It is also called as the phloem which is made up of a thin layer of living cells. The cells have thin walls which allows water and nutrients to pass in the tree.

The Root Structure of a Tree

The roots have many specialized components. There is the tiny structure extending from the main root stems called root hair. The root hair has thin walls that absorbs water and minerals. The mineral solution is then passed into the vascular core of the root. The root cap is a protective structure at the tip of the root.

It is a fact that there are different root systems of different trees. For example, the pine has a strong central root called taproot. On the other hand, the maple tree do not have a dominant taproot. The root is characterized by a large number of roots closer to the surface.

The Leaves of a Tree

The leaves is very vital part of the tree because they produce sugars and allow the distribution of water.

Sugar is produced by photosynthesis, which is a process by which carbon dioxide and water are combined with sunlight and the so-called chlorophyll. The sugar then gives energy to the tree.

Water loss or transpiration also takes place in the leaf. Why? Water is drawn up from the roots through the vascular system in order to replace the lost moisture in the tree.

Structure of a Tree

The leaves, bark, and roots are the main structure of a tree.

The Leaves:
As we have learned from elementary school, the leaves convert carbon dioxide into oxygen to provide the tree with energy to grow and fight any diseases.

The Roots:
The roots are the means to take up water and minerals. They provide structural stability to the tree.

The Bark:
It is the outer protective covering of the tree trunks. Well, we have seen different form and structure of a bark.

The image above is taken from infovisual.info. Thank you.

Pruning: Maintaining Palm

Why pruning is done on palms? It is done to remove dead or dying fronds and fruiting clusters. It is usually done on yearly basis. As often as three to six months, coconuts are pruned in tropical climates.

When pruning, palm should treat nutrient deficiencies because pruning nutrient deficient palms could cause symptoms to appear in remaining foliage. Take note also that over pruning palms can cause slower growth and may attract more pests.

Palms Diseases and Pests

You probably have the idea that palms are also susceptible to infections by viruses, bacteria, and fungi, and to infestation by insects and other pests as well. Infectious agents and pests vary widely by region and country. However, worry no more because there are university extension services, consulting arborist, or Plant Health Care specialist familiar with palms in your area that may be able to provide a diagnosis and suggestions for treatment.

Mulching: Maintaining Palm

Did you know that organic mulches are beneficial to palms as they are to trees? Proper mulching is by applying 2 to 4 inches of organic mulch around a palm at a distance of 2 to 4 feet. Remember to keep mulch away from the trunk. Mulch can reduce the likelihood of damage from string trimmers or lawn mowers.