Month: December 2025
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Identifying Trees: Where to Begin
1. Start with the Big PictureBefore focusing on tiny details, observe the tree’s overall shape, height, and branching pattern. Some species have sweeping, rounded crowns, while others grow tall and narrow or have branches that angle upward in a distinctive way. 2. Examine Leaves or NeedlesLeaves offer some of the clearest clues. Look at their…
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Identifying Trees Using Leaves
Leaves are one of the most revealing features of a tree, and learning to read their shapes and edges can turn a simple walk into a botanical treasure hunt. By paying attention to two key traits—shape and margin—you can quickly narrow down the species you’re looking at. 1. Start with Overall ShapeLeaf shapes vary widely:…
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Identifying Trees Using Bark
When leaves are out of reach or missing altogether, bark becomes one of the most reliable clues for identifying trees. Each species has its own distinct texture, color, and pattern. 1. Look at TextureTree bark can be smooth, furrowed, plated, or exfloiating/peeling. For example, beech trees have smooth, gray bark, while mature oaks tend to…