Tree Info

Question 1

Pith

Answer 1

This is the centre of the tree and is the dead tissue of the original sapling

Question 2

Heartwood

Answer 2

The heartwood lies between the sapwood and the pith and is made up of
older inactive layers. Its main function is to help the tree to remain straight
and upright. This section of the tree generally produces timber which is more
durable and resistant to decay and insect attack.

Question 3

Sapwood

Answer 3

This is the newly formed wood which surrounds the heartwood. It is usually
softer and lighter in colour. It is through the cells of the sapwood that water
and minerals are conducted to the leaves. As the tree grows the sapwood
ages, becomes inactive and turns into heartwood

Question 4

Cambium Layer

Answer 4

The cambium consists of a two-celled layer. The inner layer (called bast or
phloem) produces new sapwood, while the outer layer (cortex) produces new
bark.

Question 5

Bark

Answer 5

The outer bark serves as protection for the tree against insects and injury and
also prevents the cambium layer from drying out.

Question 6

Growth rings

Answer 6

Growth rings are made up of cells representing one season’s growth. They are
divided into two distinct layers:

Question 7

Spring (early) wood.

Answer 7

This layer is formed during the spring and early
summer when the growth rate is at its greatest. It is lighter in colour, soft
and has large thin-walled cells.

Question 8

Summer (late) wood

Answer 8

This layer is formed during the summer and early
autumn when growth is slower. It is darker in colour and has small hardwalled cells.