Why are the trunks of some trees white

2024-11-11 -

White or wrapped painted of tree trunks is a common practice that goes beyond aesthetics. In various places, streets and even rural areas, this technique that has specific purposes for their protection, especially those youngest or vulnerable can be observed.

One of the main benefits of this technique is protection against solar radiation. Young trees with thinner cortes are especially susceptible to solar burns, which can weaken their structure and generate damage to new outbreaks. When applying a layer of lime in the trunks, direct exposure to the sun is reduced since a physical barrier is created that protects the cortex. In areas with extreme climates, the white painted helps protect trees from both excessive heat in Summer as frost in winter. The Cal applied in the trunks acts as an insulator, regulating the temperature of the cortex and minimizing the damage that may occur during the most extreme stations. The enchanted also contributes to the maintenance of the pH in alkaline soils. When gradually washed by irrigation or rain, lime is modifying the pH of the ground around the tree trunk, which can improve the conditions for its growth. This is important in agricultural areas where fruit trees, such as cherry trees, apple trees, require specific soil conditions to properly develop. Despite their multiple benefits, the dwelling also their detractors. Some experts argue that the cals applied in the trunks can hinder the breathing of the tree, since, in addition to using the leaves and branches, the trunk also participates in the gas exchange. In some cases, it can also hide the presence of pests or diseases, such as fungi, whose color can be confused with that of lime.