New Growth Increments Sustain Stem Strength

The strength of tree stems is dependent upon stem thickness, stiffness, and ability to react to changes in aspects toward gravity and wind events. Materials added farther from the stem center (neutral axis) has a much greater impact on strength (per unit weight), than closer to the center materials. This positioning effect is the mechanic strength advantage seen when comparing hollow tubes and solid rods of equal weight, made of the same material -- the tube can resist force more effectively than the rod without deformation. The geometry of where materials are deposited change the strength for resisting bending and twist (torsion).

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