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Trees Talk

Just Not the Way You Think

Far from silent, trees use a hidden network to communicate and support one another.


Root Signals
Stressed trees send chemical signals through their roots—warning nearby trees of drought or insect attacks.


The Wood Wide Web
Mycorrhizal fungi connect tree roots underground, forming a vast network that lets trees share nutrients and alerts. Older trees can even nourish younger ones.


Airborne Warnings
When under attack, trees release airborne compounds to warn neighbors, prompting them to activate defenses.


Mutual Support
Some trees help weaker ones by sending resources through underground links—like a forest version of family care.


Science is still uncovering the complexity of this quiet, cooperative world—where trees look out for one another beneath the surface.

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The Hidden Life of Trees

The Hidden Life of Trees

The Illustrated Edition

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