Have you observed a tree today? Maybe there is a tall pine growing in a local park. Perhaps you reside near an orchard where farmers are cultivating fruit trees. Or maybe you pass by a shady elm on your way to school. Wherever you live, there are likely trees growing nearby.
Trees can survive anywhere on Earth as long as there is sufficient water, heat, and air. They can be found on six out of the seven continents. Antarctica is the only continent that does not have trees. Deserts and mountaintops are other locations where trees cannot thrive.
Trees play a vital role in sustaining life on Earth. Their roots anchor the soil and prevent erosion. Through photosynthesis, trees also remove carbon dioxide from the air and produce oxygen, which is essential for humans to breathe. Trees also provide habitats for numerous animals such as birds, squirrels, and insects. They offer shade and contribute to keeping the planet cool.
Humans also derive numerous resources from trees. Fruits like apples, oranges, and avocados grow on trees. Wood from trees is used for building homes, making paper, and creating furniture. Some people use wood as a fuel source for heating their homes. Trees are a renewable resource because they can be replanted.
Arbor Day is an annual holiday dedicated to celebrating trees. The name originates from the Latin word for tree—arbor. On Arbor Day, people commemorate the occasion by planting and caring for trees.
Arbor Day was first established in Nebraska. J. Sterling Morton wanted to encourage individuals and civic groups to plant trees. While serving as the secretary for the Nebraska Territory, he proposed a tree planting holiday. The first Arbor Day was celebrated on April 10, 1872. Approximately one million trees were planted across Nebraska on that day. Today, Morton is recognized as the Father of Arbor Day.
Morton’s idea spread, and people in other states began observing Arbor Day. In 1972, President Richard Nixon declared Arbor Day a national holiday. Nationally, Arbor Day is observed on the last Friday in April. However, many states celebrate Arbor Day on different dates based on the optimal time to plant trees due to varying weather conditions. This map indicates when each state celebrates Arbor Day.
Planting trees remains as important today as it was during Morton’s time. In many parts of the world, trees and forests are being cut down. Some are harvested for timber, while others are cleared for agricultural or construction purposes. When all the trees are removed from an area simultaneously, it is known as “clear cutting.” Occasionally, new trees are planted in a process called reforestation.
Deforestation occurs when trees are clear-cut without being replanted. This practice can have negative effects on the environment. Soil erosion occurs when the roots no longer hold the soil in place. Animals lose their habitats and may become extinct. The increased concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere raises the Earth’s temperature.
Fortunately, Arbor Day raises awareness about the importance of planting trees. It also encourages people to think about the future. Trees take many years to mature, so a tree planted today will provide shade, purify the air, and offer habitats for animals for future generations.
However, Arbor Day is an annual event. Trees play a vital role in our daily lives. You have the power to make a difference! How can you take care of the trees in your vicinity? How can you minimize your consumption of paper and other wood-based products? Who can assist you in planting a tree?
Give It a Try
If you enjoyed today’s Wonder of the Day on Trees, please don’t depart just yet. Why not expand your horizons and engage in these activities with your family or friends?
- The most effective way to celebrate Arbor Day is by planting a tree! In many communities, families receive free saplings as part of the festivities. This guide will assist you in learning how to plant your tree. If possible, create a video to share your tree-planting experience with your classmates or friends.
- Are you ready to take the spotlight? Learn the song “Rappin’ About Trees” with your friends. Then perform it for your class or family to educate them about the importance of trees.
- Expand your knowledge about trees! Explore this DK interactive resource with a trusted adult. Afterwards, create a poster using art supplies you have at home or a Canva template to share fascinating facts about trees with your friends and family.
References
- https://www.britannica.com/dictionary (accessed 24 Apr., 2023)
- https://kids.britannica.com/students/article/tree/277422 (accessed 29 Mar., 2023)
- https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/timberline/ (accessed 27 Mar., 2023)
- https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-priorities/build-healthy-cities/cities-stories/benefits-of-trees-forests/ (accessed 29 Mar., 2023)
- https://www.arborday.org/celebrate/history.cfm (accessed 29 Mar., 2023)
- https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/the-history-of-arbor-day (accessed 29 Mar., 2023)
- https://www.sierraclub.org/grassroots-network/stop-clearcutting-ca/about-clearcutting (accessed 29 Mar., 2023)
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