The Language of Trees

When I was in Africa, I learned about Acacia tree leaves and how they communicate. The trees send out “warning” pheromones downwind to other trees which then emit toxic tannins with a bitter taste. This is how they protect themselves from being eaten by giraffes.

Since quarantine, I have relocated from New York City to my home on Long Island where I am surrounded by trees that help to calm me. When my daughter was little, she once stared out into the park and said, “Just look to the trees, Mama,” reminding me to enjoy the moment. Trees must be protected for our general health, our mental health, and our earth. They have much to say.