Self-Healing Power of Trees

Dr Abe V Rotor

New shoots emerge to eventually replace the lost
crown of a mahogany tree (Swietenia macrophylla).

A lone shoot rises from a cut branch of a fire tree
(Delonix regia)

Rot starts at the center on an old cut, while
healing takes place peripherally in a camphor
tree. Annual rings show that the branch was
five years old when it was cut.

Delayed healing exposes the wood to rot and
eventually form a hollow - the result of a
typhoon which ripped off a major branch
from the trunk.

Normal healing process showing actively dividing cambium
layer which will completely cover the wound. Note numerous
dots on the newly formed layer. These are breathing pores
called lenticles, counterpart of stomata on the leaves.

Completely healed wound.

Scars of vandalism. Law prohibits posting of advertisements
on trees, so with other destructive means.