The Difference Between Softwood and Hardwood Trees

Many people wrongly assume that hardwood is hard and durable, and softwood is the exact opposite. But the truth is, these two terms do not speak to the density of a tree, but rather, its origins. Continue reading to learn what this means, and how softwoods differ from hardwood trees.

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Tree Reproduction

It is the method of reproduction a tree uses that defines whether it is a soft or hardwood. It does not have anything to do with the woods strength or density. You see, trees reproduce by producing seeds, which vary depending on the species of tree. Ultimately, these seeds are what distinguish softwoods from hardwoods.

Angiosperms and Gymnosperms

Hardwood trees are called angiosperms, and produce a seed that is covered in shell or skin. Hardwood trees are also known as deciduous trees, and include species such as Maple Trees, Apple Trees, Oak Trees, and Ash Trees. The most common forms of seeds produced by hardwood trees are nuts and fruit, but they also take on many other forms as well.

Softwood trees are called gymnosperms, and produce a seed that is not covered in a skin or shell. They commonly fall to the ground, such as pine cones and acorns. Softwood trees are also known as evergreen or conifer trees. Common species include Pine Trees, Hemlocks, Firs, and Spruces.

Evergreen and Deciduous Trees

Simply knowing the difference between deciduous trees and evergreen trees is enough to understand the difference between hardwoods and softwoods. For instance, softwood trees maintain their foliage all year long, while deciduous trees shed theirs for the winter. Also, softwoods have higher sap production than hardwoods. And as for wood density and strength, hardwoods are actual more dense and heavier, but not in all cases. If you have more questions about your hardwood and softwood trees, contact a local tree care company for professional advice you can trust.

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The Difference Between Deciduous and Evergreen Trees

When it comes to learning about trees, everyone should be on board! Trees are among the most important natural resources on the planet. Without trees, we would not have a sufficient amount of oxygen, and way too much carbon dioxide, in our atmosphere. You see, trees give off oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, so the relationship between all living creatures on Earth and trees is a significant and ancient one!

One of the first things to learn about trees is that there are two main types that exist: deciduous and evergreen. All trees can be categorized as one or the other. Now you have certainly seen numerous examples of these trees in real life, unless of course you’ve been hiding under a rock! But seeing trees is much different than understanding them. Once you learn the differences between deciduous and evergreen trees, you will know exactly what you are looking at next time!

Deciduous Trees

When you see leaves on a tree, you are looking at a deciduous tree. Deciduous trees grow new leaves in the spring and shed their leaves in the fall; then they remain alive, but dormant, all winter long until the sun shines again and new life can emerge with warmer weather.

In the winter, these trees look bare and brazen, so sometimes they are misinterpreted as dead. But this is far from the truth! Deciduous trees simple “sleep” away the winter time until better weather returns. They shut off all their photosynthesis and chlorophyll productions and take a long seasonal nap!

Angiosperms and flowering plants are deciduous vegetation.

Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees are conifers, and include species like pines, hemlocks, firs, and spruces. They have needles instead of leaves, which remain in place all year long. Even in the winter, evergreen trees do not lose their pine needles, but sometimes, they can turn color depending on environmental conditions. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Some conifers do lose their needles each fall. These include Larches, Tamaracks, and Bald Cypress.

Gymnosperms and conifers are evergreen vegetation.

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