I stumbled upon this large tree while walking the trails one day. What would cause it to grow in a spiral fashion like that? After doing a little research I found that there are several theories as to what causes this phenomenon. An emerging theory is that it is a clever adaptation for survival. The wood cells in trees can begin to grow in a spiral pattern to give the tree and branches more strength. A spiral pattern can also develop to strengthen tree trunks tasked with supporting an unusually heavy or uneven canopy.
Spiral grain is more able to twist, rock, and roll with the wind than straight-grained branches so that a branch is less likely to break. It also allows branches to more easily bend and move when burdened with heavy snow, to better slough the load.
A spiral grain also efficiently delivers sap and food throughout the tree when a straight grain isn’t sufficient. In a model tree (straight grain, living in ideal conditions), sap and food travel up and down a tree as if on a highway, delivering sustenance to branches and roots located in their straight line of travel.
However, conditions rarely match the ideal, and so the tree must adapt. Perhaps a root is located in poorly drained soil. Or maybe some of its roots or part of its canopy has broken off. The tree’s wood cells then form a spiral pattern that allows sap and food to be distributed to all roots and branches of the tree.
Next time you see a spiral-grained tree, think about why it grew that way. Was it challenging conditions, the necessity for more strength, or both? Either way, you will know that spiral grain is not a tortuous freak of nature. Rather, it is a wonderful adaptation.
The Bob White Nature Trail is a one mile lightly trafficked loop trail that offers the chance to see wildlife in a serene setting. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips and is good for all skill levels.
The cache:
The cache is a medium-sized lock & lock hidden a little off the Bob While trail in Lower Huron Metropark.
This cache is located in Lower Huron Metropark. A Metroparks vehicle permit is required for entry to the parks: $10 daily pass, $40 annual pass, $29 annual seniors pass. All park rules and regulations apply. Please park in parking lots only.
For general information please call 810-227-2752 800-47-PARKS, or visit www.metroparks.com. Dogs on a leash are allowed in this section of the park The hours for the trail are dawn to dusk.
A Metropark geocaching permit has been filed and approved by Kevin Arnold (Southern District Interpretive Supervisor).