Trees of the Pacific Northwest (Part 1, Western RedCedars)

Let’s go for a walk in the forest.

You’ve met trees on a casual/ in-passing sort of basis before, sure, but have you ever really gotten to know them? Can you call them by their common names? 

You see them lingering at the edge of a roadside as you drive by, but you never have the time to stop and make their acquaintance.  They’re the neighbors you glance as you pull quickly out of your driveway; they’re the familiar townsfolk you bump elbows with but don’t really know.

Today, we’ll take a closer look than usual; today we’ll pause and start to know our neighbors.  We’ll consider:

• Distinguishing Characteristics: How do they usually look?
• Norms and Maxes:  Let’s be real, these trees are big.  Like, big-big.  Up to 150-200 feet tall in their bare feet (roots) and 20 feet around.  I expect none of us here have a measuring tape long enough to confirm the exact details, but we’ll look at a few of the more interesting stats.
• Likes, Dislikes: Enjoys moody, rainy days? Or more of a sunny beach lover? Trees have preferences that can help you identify them in their element.
• Photos:  I like taking pictures of my own stately neighbors, so I will inflict a few on you in the name of education.  Honestly, it helps to have examples.
• Not to be Confused with:  No one likes to be mistaken for someone else, and giving your neighbor Marilyn a big hug with an exclamation of “Trish!” is beyond mortifying.  Let’s get to know our plants well enough to avoid any awkward faux pas.
• Resources for Learning More: Because once you recognize your neighbors, you’ll want to get to know them even better.

Getting to know the trees around you is a walk in the park forest.  Let’s go.