Fun Tree Facts for Lancaster Kids (and Grownups, Too!)

By: Tom Baal

Sprout was hanging upside down from the monkey bars (as one does) when he spotted a leaf twirling down from a big old maple.

“Trees are cool,” he said, landing with a thud. “I wonder how many weird things they can do.”

So he pulled out his leaf-shaped notebook (again), and this time, instead of asking questions, he started collecting fun tree facts. And because Sprout’s from Lancaster – where trees are everywhere – he wanted to make sure these facts felt local, real, and totally wow-worthy.

Here’s what he discovered.

Not with words (that would be wild), but through their roots, trees actually talk to each other. Underground, they pass nutrients and send signals using something called the mycorrhizal network. Sprout said it sounded like a superhero squad of soil fungus. “They’re like best friends helping each other out,” he explained. “Only with fungus.”

Some trees in Lancaster are seriously old. We’re talking older-than-your-grandparents’-grandparents old. That huge sycamore by the creek? Could be over 200 years old. That’s a lot of birthdays and squirrel parties. “Imagine how many squirrels it’s seen,” Sprout whispered, wide-eyed.

Leaves have tiny breathing holes. Really. They “inhale” carbon dioxide and “exhale” oxygen through little openings called stomata. Basically, tree leaves breathe through invisible nose-holes. “I told my sister our oak tree breathes through its skin,” Sprout said. “She made a face. But it’s true!”

And guess what? Trees sweat. Kind of. When it’s hot, they release water vapor from their leaves. It’s called transpiration, and it helps cool the air around them. So next time you’re lounging under a tree in a Lancaster park and it feels breezy and fresh, thank the tree. Built-in air conditioning – no batteries required.

Sprout also discovered that some trees smell good. Like, really good. Crush a sweet birch or sassafras leaf (gently, and with permission), and you might notice hints of mint, root beer, or even vanilla. Sprout made a whole sniff chart, and it smelled like the best nature bakery ever.

Here’s a big one: one mature tree can make enough oxygen in a day for four people to breathe. That’s right. One tree, four friends, lots of fresh air. “Thanks, Barkley!” Sprout yelled up to his backyard tree. Barkley didn’t answer, but we’re pretty sure he appreciated it.

Lancaster has some real tree celebrities, too. There’s a white oak near Lititz that’s been growing since the Revolutionary War. The cherry blossoms at Long’s Park? Total springtime superstars. If you ever pass one of these leafy legends, go ahead and give it a little wave. Maybe even a polite high five. Trees love good manners.

Sprout has a challenge for every Lancaster kid: Pick your favorite local tree and visit it often. Give it a name. (Sprout likes “Captain Leafy.”) Learn what kind it is – maybe it’s a maple, or a sycamore, or even a magical-sounding sassafras. Draw a little sign or picture about it. Tell your friends something cool you learned. Trees don’t mind fans.

Did you know that just being around trees can help you feel less stressed? It’s true. Your brain likes green. Also, Pennsylvania’s state tree is the eastern hemlock. And those rings inside a tree’s trunk? They can tell how old it is and even what kind of weather it lived through. Talk about a wooden time capsule.

Sprout’s final thought? Trees aren’t just standing around. They’re busy doing important stuff – cleaning the air, cooling the ground, giving animals homes, and making life better. And all they really need is sunshine, rain, and maybe a little appreciation.

So next time you pass a tree in Lancaster, try this: Wave hello. Say thank you. And if you’re feeling brave (or just really like bark), give it a gentle hug.

Sprout’s Tree Challenge: Become a Leaf Detective!

Hey explorers, it’s Sprout again!

Did you know trees in Lancaster are like quiet superheroes? They clean the air, cool the parks, throw the best squirrel parties, and even talk to each other underground (seriously – fungus friends and everything!).

Now it’s your turn to be a Leaf Detective:

Find your favorite local tree – at the park, your school, or even your own yard.

Give it a name! Sprout’s top picks? Barky McShade and Captain Leafy.

Check out its leaves. Are they pointy, smooth, round, or squiggly? Draw them in your nature notebook!

Take a sniff! Does the bark or leaf have a smell? Some trees smell like root beer or mint. (Nature’s weird. Nature’s awesome.)

Visit often and say hello – you’ll notice new things each time.

If you’re feeling extra curious, ask a grown-up to help you look up what kind of tree it is. You’ll be amazed at how much trees have to say without even saying a word.

Did You Know?

Tip Top Arborists

Since 1976, Tip Top Arborists has been Southern California’s trusted partner in professional tree care. Based in Lancaster, CA, and surrounding areas – delivering expert tree trimming, removal, and maintenance services with safety, science, and integrity at the core.

We’re not your average “guys with chainsaws.” We’re ISA Certified Arborists with deep industry knowledge, modern equipment, and a commitment to customer care that’s been passed down for nearly five decades. From storm damage cleanup to long-term tree health management, our team helps property owners protect their investment  – and enhance their curb appeal – year-round.

Experienced

We have been in the industry for over 45 years. Choosing us means choosing proven experience and expertise.

Insured

Your safety is our highest priority. We are bonded and insured to protect you, your property, and our team.

Licensed

Our contractor’s license #821770 is current and active with the CSLB. Hiring us means hiring licensed tree experts.

Recycling

We are as committed to the environment as we are to our clients. We recycle 100% of all wood and green waste.

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