Looking at your landscaping, you may wonder how to tell how old a tree is. Knowing its age can help you estimate how much taller it will become, which is useful in developing a landscaping plan. Relying on a premium tree service in Sherwood, OR, to estimate the age of a tree is a smart idea. Read on to find out why.
Aging a Tree By Counting Growth Rings
Counting growth rings inside the wood of the trunk is the easiest way to estimate the age of a tree. The darker areas represent the tree going into winter dormancy. Each ring in the wood represents an annual growing season, meaning you can count them to determine the tree’s age.
However, this technique only works by cutting all the way through the trunk of the tree, which kills it. That’s why arborists use other techniques to determine the age of a living tree.
Aging a Living Tree
To measure the age of a living tree, professionals might use a tool called an increment borer. This tool penetrates the tree like a drill bit, pulling out a tiny cylindrical core of the trunk. The pro then counts the rings in the core sample.
If you don’t want to bore into the tree trunk, another option relies on simply knowing the species of the tree. Measure the tree’s circumference and calculate the diameter measurement from the circumference. Then, multiply the diameter by the species-specific growth factor number, which you can find through an internet search. The calculated number represents an estimated age for the tree.
Importance of Estimating a Tree’s Age
If you know how to tell how old a tree is, you can potentially determine how to best treat it for damage. If you discover that your tree is too old to be able to repair its damaged bark, you may choose to cut it down, rather than allowing it to accumulate disease slowly. If your tree is on the younger side, it may be able to repair itself.
Understanding the age of the trees in your yard can help with managing changes to your climate and preparing to plant new trees in tough environmental conditions. Older trees may need specific nutrients to deal with weather changes, and it’s easier to precisely provide this benefit when you understand the age of the trees.
We Can Help You Care for an Older Tree
When you are wondering how to care for trees on your property, you may first want to figure out how to tell how old a tree is. Estimating the tree’s age can help you formulate the proper care plan.
Reach out to our ISA-certified arborists today for help with any of your tree service needs, including developing a treatment plan for mature trees in Sherwood, OR, and questions like “Can trees regrow bark?” Call Evergreen Tree Services at (503) 625-4595 today for a free estimate or 24/7 emergency service.ose the best time for you. Contact us at 503-625-4595 to take advantage of our professional tree care services.
