Conifer – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is a conifer? A conifer is a type of plant that belongs to the division Pinophyta, also known as Coniferophyta. These plants are characterized by their cone-bearing reproductive structures and needle-like or scale-like leaves. Conifers are typically evergreen, meaning they retain their foliage throughout the year. They are found in various habitats around the … Read more

Secondary Succession – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Ecological Terms Glossary

I. What is Secondary Succession? Secondary succession is a process of ecological succession that occurs in an area that has previously been disturbed or altered by natural or human-induced events. These disturbances can include events such as forest fires, hurricanes, logging, or agriculture. Unlike primary succession, which occurs in areas where no soil is present, … Read more

Agroforestry – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Forest Management Glossary

What is Agroforestry? Agroforestry is a land use management system that integrates trees, crops, and livestock on the same piece of land. It is a sustainable agricultural practice that aims to optimize the benefits of combining agriculture and forestry. Agroforestry systems are designed to mimic the natural ecosystems, where trees and crops coexist and interact … Read more

Xylella Fastidiosa – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Xylella Fastidiosa? Xylella Fastidiosa is a type of bacteria that infects a wide range of plants, including trees, shrubs, and agricultural crops. It is a xylem-limited bacterium, meaning it primarily infects the xylem tissue of plants. Xylem is responsible for transporting water and nutrients from the roots to the rest of the plant, … Read more

Underplanting – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Horticultural Terms Glossary

What is underplanting? Underplanting refers to the practice of planting smaller, low-growing plants beneath larger trees or shrubs in a garden or landscape. These underplanted plants can serve a variety of purposes, such as adding color, texture, and interest to the space, filling in bare spots, and providing ground cover to suppress weeds. Underplanting is … Read more

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

I. What is the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid? The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae) is a tiny, aphid-like insect that feeds on the sap of hemlock trees. Originally from East Asia, this invasive species was first discovered in the United States in the 1950s and has since spread to many states along the East Coast and … Read more