5 Facts about Trees That May Surprise You

Trees are absolutely stunning parts of nature that make our lives happier and healthier. Whether you love to sit under the shady branches and read a good book, or you prefer long walks down tree-lined avenues, trees play a big role in our lives. That's why tree care service in Monroe, GA is so important. Here are five fun facts about trees and caring for these beautiful plants. 

Life

We all need oxygen in our lungs to breathe and survive. Look in your backyard or take a walk in the park, and you'll see the trees responsible for providing so much of our oxygen. A tree uses its leaves to absorb carbon dioxide and extracts the carbon to help its growth. The oxygen is released through its leaves, helping countless other organisms live. A tree also absorbs water through its roots in the ground, using the hydrogen to grow big and tall while also releasing oxygen through its leaves. 

Age

Although the average tree in an urban area is expected to live only 8 years, there are plenty of trees out there much older than you, your parents and even your grandparents! In fact, the tallest tree in America is a Coast Redwood, which continues to grow in Redwood National Park in northern California. At 369 feet tall, this tree is over 2000 years old! It's possible that many trees in nearby parks and forests have seen and survived a lot more than you have!

Poaching

Sadly, some criminals are drawn to the expensive worth of wood. In 1996, $1 million worth of lumber was stolen every month just in Washington State. Lumber theft has continued to this day, with criminals willing to do some heavy lifting for a big chunk of change. National parks in the U.S. and Canada are always keeping watch for suspicious activity. Luckily, science is on their side as trees have DNA fingerprints, just like people do. Sometimes, investigators are able to match the DNA from a tree stump to logs that appear at a lumber mill. Sadly, with so many trees on a property, it can take a long time for land owners to notice any trees are missing, so poachers can get away with their crimes. 

Forests

If you've ever taken a cross-country road trip, you've probably realized there are a whole lot of trees. In fact, about one third of the U.S. is covered by forests. The last forest inventory found that there are nearly 247 billion trees more than 1 inch in diameter across America. Advocates are fighting to protect these trees from deforestation and deadly diseases. 

Value 

Trees provide so much value to homeowners and businesses throughout the country. When properly placed around buildings and homes, trees can minimize air conditioning needs by 30%. If that wasn't good enough, well-maintained trees and shrubs can make a big difference to property value, with up to a 14% increase! If you want to boost your property value and your yard, there are options for professional tree care service in Monroe, GA.