Secondary Xylem – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Wood and Lumber Glossary

What is Secondary Xylem? Secondary xylem, also known as wood, is a type of tissue found in vascular plants that is responsible for providing structural support and conducting water and nutrients throughout the plant. It is produced by the vascular cambium, a meristematic tissue located between the primary xylem and phloem in the stems and … Read more

Hardiness Zone – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is a Hardiness Zone? A Hardiness Zone is a geographical area defined by a range of climatic conditions that are suitable for specific types of plants to grow successfully. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) developed the Hardiness Zone map to help gardeners and growers determine which plants are most likely to thrive … Read more

Citrus Canker – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Tree Diseases and Pests Glossary

What is Citrus Canker? Citrus canker is a plant disease caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri. This disease affects citrus trees, including oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, causing lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. Citrus canker is highly contagious and can spread rapidly through a citrus orchard, leading to significant economic losses … Read more

Senescence – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Botanical Terms Glossary

What is Senescence? Senescence is the process of aging or deterioration in living organisms, including plants. It is a natural and programmed process that occurs at the cellular, tissue, and whole-plant levels. Senescence is essential for the plant’s growth and development, as it allows for the recycling of nutrients and energy from older tissues to … Read more

Heartwood – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Identification and Classification Of Trees Glossary

What is Heartwood? Heartwood is the innermost part of a tree trunk or branch, surrounded by sapwood. It is a dense, dark-colored wood that is no longer active in the tree’s transport of water and nutrients. While sapwood is responsible for conducting water and nutrients throughout the tree, heartwood serves a different purpose within the … Read more

Nitrogen Cycle – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Ecological Terms Glossary

I. What is the Nitrogen Cycle? The nitrogen cycle is a biogeochemical process that describes the movement of nitrogen through the environment. Nitrogen is an essential element for all living organisms, as it is a key component of proteins, nucleic acids, and other important biomolecules. The nitrogen cycle involves a series of interconnected processes that … Read more