So, these spruce trees were planted everywhere because they grew quickly, and are dying now due to extreme weather and pests.
You may have learned that the climate is putting more and more stress on our ecosystems. When plants are stressed by weather extremes like storms or droughts (especially in a place that rarely sees drought), their ability to fight off pests is hindered. Just like when you’re tired you’re more likely to get sick, the spruce trees can’t repel the beetles that feed on them. That’s why scientists like me are helping the plants we depend on for food fight against pests and climate factors.
Can you see how the needs of the people were affected by the plants around them, and how the people affected the landscape in turn? Maybe after our journey you have a new understanding of the metaphor I made in my first article: humans and plants are all part of one big tapestry. You need every thread to make a happy society. It’s the same in your very own backyard, too!
Let me end by saying that interacting with all of you has been a great highlight of my trip to Germany. I loved answering all your questions, and I hope I answered them well!
If I didn’t answer them well, well...Guess you’ll have to do some more exploring to get those answers!
Tschüss (Bye)!
-Ellie
