Why The Coconut Palm Points to the Sea
The coconut palm tree (Cocos nucifera) does something that very few trees do. It leans into wind. Most trees have trunks that will bend away…
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Tag: trees
The Avenue Effect in Trees
My thanks to Alun for sending in this photo of autumn colour near the Kitano Tenman-Gu Shrine in Kyoto. And the following question: “I saw…
The Tree Root Compass
A short video explaining how we can use tree roots as a compass. There are over 20 methods for using trees to help us find…
How to Find Your Way Using Ivy
A short video explaining how to find north or south and make a map in the woods using ivy (Hedera helix). You might also enjoy:…
The Tick Effect in Trees
The shape of trees and their branches reveal direction. This short video shows one method, but there are over 20 others too. You might also…
Gauging the Age of Conifers
We can estimate the age of young conifers by counting the levels or whorls of branches. Each new whorl represents a year’s growth. It is…
Nature’s Altimeter
The next time you get the chance to look across a valley to a high peak, make sure to enjoy your view of nature’s altimeter.…
The Beechwood Sickener – Russula nobilis
The photo above shows a mushroom known as the Beechwood Sickener – Russula nobilis. As the name would suggest, this is a poisonous fungus. In…
What’s the difference between ‘windthrow’ and ‘windsnap’ in trees?
And how can they help me find my way in the woods? Both ‘windthrow’ and ‘windsnap’ are names given by foresters to trees that have…