These rings can tell us how old the tree is, and what the weather was like during each year of the trees life. The light-colored rings represent wood that grew in the spring and early summer, while the dark rings represent wood that grew in the late summer and fall.

What does each ring in a tree mean?

New growth in trees occurs in a layer of cells near the bark. A trees growth rate changes in a predictable pattern throughout the year in response to seasonal climate changes, resulting in visible growth rings. Each ring marks a complete cycle of seasons, or one year, in the trees life.

What do narrow tree rings represent?

Narrow rings do not only signify a lack of sun or water. A forest fire may have damaged the trees crown and slowed its growth. Defoliation by insects or fungi can have the same effect. After several years, this tree gained strength and returned to normal growth.

What does it mean when some tree rings are bigger smaller than others?

When conditions encourage growth, a tree adds extra tissue and produces a thick ring. A late spring is likely to shorten the growing season, causing a tree to have a narrower tree ring. Abundant rainfall increases growth, producing a wider ring. Drought decreases growth, producing a narrower ring.

What are the rings on a tree called?

Each year, the tree forms new cells, arranged in concentric circles called annual rings or annual growth rings. These annual rings show the amount of wood produced during one growing season.