Tree Rings

Let’s practice determining the age of a tree using growth rings.

By Arnoldius (Own work (selbst erstelltes Foto)) [CC-BY-SA-2.5], via Wikimedia Commons

Look at this image. Do you notice anything?

You probably noticed that there are a series of light and dark rings extending from the center of the tree. These are growth rings. The lighter wood grows in the spring and summer while the darker wood grows in the fall and winter. One year of growth equals one light ring and one dark ring.  

Now examine the following image:

Albert Bridge [CC-BY-SA-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Estimate the age of this tree by counting the growth rings. Remember that one year’s growth equals one dark ring and one light ring.

Did you estimate the age of this tree to between 25 and 30 years? Great job!