Learn about tree histories - slices through time

A tree's age can be told by counting the rings that are visible in the trunk after they are cut down.

The rings may appear as light brown and light yellow concentric circles, as shown in the picture. The dark brown  edge of the wood is the bark of the tree.

Each ring represents one year of growth for that tree:

• Rings that are wide represent a year of excellent growth when conditions of sun, water and nutrients were ideal.
• Rings that are very narrow indicate the tree had a more difficult year of growth due to drought or other poor conditions.