Trees remove the dangerous levels of carbon dioxide from our air, and make wood from it. They give out helpful oxygen! This huge synthesising work takes place in addition to supporting wildlife and providing beauty free of charge!
Pollution affects trees, the climate change causing them distress. They find hot summers, cold winters, floods and droughts difficult to cope with. Many infections and pests, especially from abroad are killing them. We all need to think of planting a suitable tree that will help wildlife and the planet. The oak, for instance, supports over 2000 species and 300 of those only live on the oak tree!
Trees communicate with other species also. In addition to communicating with each other to build communities that bring them protection in numbers, they communicate with other species. When pine trees, for instance come under attack from the winter moth caterpillar, they increase the bitter tannin in their leaves to discourage them. Some trees when under attack from aphids, send out a scent that is attractive to ladybirds that eat the aphids. Even other trees in the vicinity pick up on this scent and they prepare for an aphid attack.
Wendy Stokes https://wendystokes.co.uk
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