The idea that trees can talk may seem unbelievable. Tree “talk” consists of many forms of hidden communication used to preserve the health of trees within their community. Tapping into communication networks is just one of many dimensions of a tree’s life.
Trees, like people, live and thrive when they are part of a community – a connected network of trees working together to support each other. A community may be a small grove of trees or a large, dense forest. Network connections need to stay intact. When one tree is missing, all trees can feel the impact.
Why do Trees Talk?
By communicating through their network, above and below ground, trees create an ecosystem that maintains healthy growth for all connected trees. This ecosystem can moderate extreme heat and cold, store water and generate humidity. The tree network also defends trees against predator invasions, excessive wind, rain and disease. The network allows trees to share retained water and nutrients, especially important during years of extended drought.
Trees Talk Using Scents
The scent of spring blossoms sends a strong signal by air to attract insects, such as bees and other pollinators to gather the sweet nectar.
Scent also is used as a defense against predators. Similar to human tissue, trees can feel pain when leaves or bark are chewed on. Oaks, spruce and beech trees register pain when predators, such as caterpillars, chew on their leaves.
- Oaks carry bitter toxic tannins in their leaves. This chemical either kills the insects or is so unappealing, the insects do not return.
- Willows produce salicylic acid that kills or deters their attackers.
Trees can also send chemical compounds through the air to warn other trees when they have been attacked. They can broadcast an alarm to attract the beneficial predators to eat the pests chewing on the tree.
Root System & Fungi Network
An extensive root network is considered the leader of all chemical activity in the tree. While roots are not actually considered the “brains of the tree,” they are the “main storage area” for their individual experiences.
Fungi are the decomposers in a forest, attaching themselves to trees and other organic matter. Various species of mushrooms and fibers growing on trees are considered fungi. They send underground chemical signals passing through the tips of tree roots. A single fungus can extend a few square miles or cover an entire forest. Fungi also increase the surface area of the tree roots, so each tree can absorb and share more water and nutrients as it travels through the network. The Fungi network also provides an excellent defense against insect attacks and bacteria that can cause disease. Tree Moss is not considered a fungus.
Fungi are not considered animals or plants. In some geographic regions, the Fungi network is so expansive, and the collection of the organism itself so heavy, Fungi are known as the largest known living organism in the world.
Other Sources of Support
Mature trees, similar to human parents, support their young child’s healthy growth and development, and shield them from harm. Mature trees are often the natural parents of younger, smaller trees growing nearby. Large tree canopies serve as a shield for the smaller trees – protecting them from extreme weather conditions, such as excessive wind, rain and heat from the sun.
When Bark “Cracks”
During periods of extended drought, trees do not get the water they need to preserve good health. Their bark begins to separate and “crack.” During field tests, the sound released by bark cracking was recorded at ultrasonic levels that humans are unable to hear. Over time, these cracks enlarge to create holes in the bark, allowing invading insects to enter; and cause long-term injury. Sealing the cavity will prevent additional damage. In some trees, the cavity serves a useful purpose by creating a home for birds, squirrels and other small animals.
Danger of Lost Connection
A tree that appears weak could have lost its connection to the network and becomes silent. Losing “alarm” signals and other news transmitted through the network creates one more opportunity for invaders to settle in. Even losing one tree in the network poses a threat for all others. The formerly intact community has a broken link.
Enjoy a Silent Walk Through a Forest
Next time you take a walk through a forest community stop, take a deep breath and a sweeping look around. Examine each tree placement and listen for any audible conversations. Notice how adjacent trees may be physically connected. Even if you hear nothing, you will gain a deeper understanding of how trees survive and the benefits of their stable and ever growing community.
by Janice Kelley
