26.10.2024

Why does it rustle...

…in the beech forest?
A walk through the autumnal South Tyrolean forest is often associated with colorful views and a rustling sound with every step. A hike like this can be great fun for children and adults alike.

This special, typical noise is clearly caused by the many falling leaves of the deciduous trees at this time of year. Did you know that South Tyrol has a low proportion of deciduous forests? It is approximately only 3%.

In our forest on the Ritten at around 1,300 m above sea level, near the farm, mainly pine trees grow. But there is also a section where some deciduous trees occur. These are oaks, beeches, poplars, etc.

One beech tree in particular catches the eye: large, thick and strong, it rises into the sky. It's also special because every time my son and I pass this spot, he goes up to the tree and hugs it tightly and deeply, like a good friend.
According to scientific research, trees have a positive effect on the well-being of the human body and also on the psyche.

The encounter with “our beech” gave me reason to awaken curiosity about this tree species and its peculiarities and to illustrate a few details.

The beech, Latin Fagus sylvatica, is a deciduous tree native to Europe. Better known here in South Tyrol under the name “Rotbuche”, because of the slightly reddish color of the wood.
The common beech usually has a straight trunk and can grow up to 30 meters high, with a dense, broad tree crown.

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