Through the many years, our climate gradually increased in temperature.
Since 1900, the average temperature on the planet has increased by a less than 2°F. But the most drastic climate and weather shifts have actually happened in the years since the year 1980. We’re talking about things like flooding and drought.
What are the effects on forests of the climate changes? Like humans, trees are accustomed to the same place under certain growing conditions. When the weather changes fast, they don’t get the time to adjust. This causes stress for them and could cause issues that require special care and attention.
A Change In Climate On Trees A Winner And Loser
What are the impacts of the changing climate on trees? The effects of climate change have actually affected trees quite significantly. A huge rainstorm within the West has caused massive tree deaths and the spread of bark beetles. more precipitation in Northeast has increased the productivity of forests and the growth of trees.
Different species of trees are dealing with it in different methods.
“Winners “winning” tree species have adjusted to warmer temperatures as well as wetter conditions , and are exhibiting more growth.
However, those “losing” trees have a different tale that is specific with each kind of species particularly those that are located within the southern part of their zones of hardiness. For instance, birch trees found in Michigan aren’t heat or drought-tolerant, and they suffer when they are more susceptible to these kinds of conditions. The white pines located in New England can’t handle the increasing pressure from disease due to higher temperatures and humidity. The tree species of the West are facing difficult conditions due to wildfires.
Effects Of Climate Change On Tree Diseases and Pests
Climate change is certainly accelerating the tree pest and tree disease epidemics.
Certain insects of the tree are moving north into regions that they weren’t able to survive in the past due to winters that weren’t warm enough. For example the southern pine beetle indigenous to The Southeast U.S. has migrated north to areas where it has not previously been. The pest is killed due to temperatures that can drop to a temperature of minus degrees F, and it’s not getting that cold in these areas.
Another impact of the changing climate on tree species that we’re witnessing is that certain insects are now experiencing multiple generations within one season, as the seasons of growth are taking longer than they did previously. For example, oystershell scale an extremely destructive pest for trees, went from only having one generation per year to having two in the northern part of Ohio as well as southern Michigan which has led to higher numbers.
Tree Planting’s Impact On Climate Change
There are some positive information regarding climate change.
While climate change impacts the growth of trees but there are also the effects of trees on changes in the climate. For example, trees can provide shade, thus reducing the use of electricity and cooling costs. Trees can also cut down on stormwater runoff which is more important when heavy rains and precipitation grow. In addition, trees sequester as well as store carbon.
Trees planted in the garden can aid in the future of climate. When you plant trees it, consider the future of changing zones for your planting area. In the next 30-50 decades, Ohio is one example which is located within Zone 5-6 is projected to change into an area in Zone 7 as temperatures continue to rise. (Insert USDA Hardiness Zone Map here)Some species like sugar maple, spruce and others may not be able to thrive in the state. However, river birch is native to the southern region of Ohio and farther south along with the bald cypress – a second southern tree, have been doing great in the northern part of Ohio and further north, and will continue perform well for years to come.