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Strange finding inside tree trunk
Name: Katie
Email: marleycreek@gmail.com
Our beloved oak tree in the front yard was struck by lightning, splitting in in 5 different directions. The tree was a total loss, and we have been cutting it up for weeks. My husband split a log and inside were very green tiny leaves, rolled up, moist, and very much alive. There seems to be no stem or attachment whatsoever. They are in a tunnel that looks sort of like a worm hole, but no worm, or no path to the outside of the tree. The tunnel is vertical, and is about 1-2 inches from the bark of the tree. The leaves were tightly rolled, like the petals of a rose bud, and peeled apart fairly easily. Any ideas? How did they get in there, are they growing inside the trunk of the tree? Is this normal? What keeps them alive? How are they green? Thanks, Katie
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April 3rd, 2012 at 12:36 pm
It sounds like an insect or small animal took seeds into the hollow of the tree. Since the seedlings didn’t have much or any light they did develop slower and different than had they been exposed to light. You’re always welcome to email photos into the Plant Clinic, which helps with diagnosis.
plantclinic@mortonarb.org