ANATOMY OF A REDWOOD & OAK TREE (Exogenous Trees)

Redwood & Oak trees grow rings that hold valuable data

As a Redwood and Oak tree (or any exogenous tree) grows, it produces rings. Any changes in growth rate, along with temperature variation throughout the yearly cycle, will make the tree's growth rings more visible.

The science of Dendrochronology uses "data" from the tree through determining the Redwood or Oak tree’s age by counting and examining its rings. The data is then used to date cores or even wood taken from trees in the past.

Here Is The Anatomy of A Redwood & Oak Tree: (and all exogenous trees)

1. Pith: The inner most part of the tree. Varies in shape and size. The pith is the oldest part of exogenous tree and when the plant becomes old, the pith dies and becomes and dark and fibrous.

2. Heart Wood: The portion surrounding pith. Strong and dark in color. Heart wood is useful for several engineering purpose. The dead part of wood and consists of various annular rings.

 

2 layers of bark protect the Cambium layer

3. Sap Wood: Next to heart wood is sap wood. Sap wood is instrumental in the growth of trees through permitting sap to move upward. Annual rings in sap wood are less sharply divided and light in color. Sap wood may also be referred to as “alburnum”.

4. Cambium Layer: Thin layer of fresh sap between the sap wood and the inner bark. The Cambium layer has sap which is not still converted into sap wood. If the bark is removed and Cambium layer exposed to atmosphere, the cells cease to be active and the tree dies.

5. Inner Bark: An inner skin of tree defending the cambium layer. It provides protection for the delicate and very important cambium layer.

6. Outer Bark: The outer skin of the tree made up of wood fibers. Sometimes it contains cracks and gaps.

7. Vascular (Medullary) Rays: Thin radial fibers extending from pith to cambium layer. They work together to hold the annular rings. In some of trees they are broken and some others are simply not prominent.

We love trees! We hope this blog article has been interesting and/or useful for you. Signature Tree Service strives hard to provide the best professional tree service in Northern California. Curtis Fosnaugh, CEO, is a reputable Certified Arborist and Certified Tree Risk Assessor. Signature Tree Service has proudly served Northern California for over 10 years!

Call us if your trees need work! We are here to help, 24/7. 

Signature Tree Service

707-449-8653  

Curtis, Oak collar exam

Neighbors and Trees and Legalese: Everything You Need To Know

Trim the overhang? Eat the fruit? What's legal & what's not?

Ever wanted to tame your neighbor’s overhanging tree or shrub but weren’t sure about your rights? Better safe than sorry. In the tree service business, there is a fine line between homeowner happiness and increased liability. Let's face it, a dispute with your neighbors can exhaust a significant amount of peace of mind. This is one reason why hiring the right professional tree service is crucial! In the meantime, Signature Tree Service is hoping this blog article may save you a little time and hassle. With a clear understanding of the law and your environment, you will know where to draw the line with neighbors without drawing in liability. One idea is to print/share this article with your neighbors anonymously so all connected property owners are educated on the facts to promote healthy coexisting, and community peace of mind.

Here Are The Most Frequently Asked Questions on Trees and Neighbors:

Q: In case my neighbor’s tree branches hang over my yard do I have the right to trim them?

A: According to the law you have the right to trim the limbs and branches that go beyond your property line, but understand that you cannot cross to the neighbor’s property and cut or destroy the tree. If this happen you will be liable for its destruction.

Q: Can I eat fruits from my neighbors tree which hangs over my property?

A: This is a definite no! The fruit belongs to your neighbor and you have no right to pick any of the fruits. There is some confusion when it comes to a fallen fruits as the courts seem divided on this issue. 

Q: My neighbor’s tree sheds leaves into my yard when the wind blows, can I file a nuisance claim?

A: Leaves are usually regarded as natural, therefore you do not have good nuisance claim over the matter. It may be disappointing to know that even if they cause damage in your yard you cannot make any legal claims against your neighbor. It is only when the tree is hanging over your property that you are entitled to trimming of the hanging branches.

Q: A large tree hangs its branches over my property but the trunk is located in my neighbor’s, land, can I claim ownership of the tree?

A: The tree is owned by your neighbor, as long as the trunk is in the neighbor’s property he or she has the all the rights .You can only claim co ownership if the tree trunk cut across the property border. In such a case each of you can claim shared responsibility for the tree.

Q: If my neighbor, in the process of digging up in his land, destroyed a tree which was on my side, can I claim compensation for the tree that was destroyed?

A: You have an absolute right to claim compensation for the damages. Your neighbor should have engaged you and received permission before digging near your landscaping.

Q: Where can I get more information on what the laws in Northern California say trees and my neighbor?

A: We found helpful information online at http://answers.uslegal.com/trees/15861/. You may also seek the guidance of a certified arborist to get advice about a specific tree situation and avoid conflicts with your neighbors. Signature Tree Service is happy to help you understand more about the species of tree, its risk and our local laws. Call us anytime to schedule an appointment with Curtis Fosnaugh, Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessor at 707-449-8653.