A Little History of the Great Sequoia Trees

The great Sequoia Trees have been a wild phenomenon for thousands of years. These age-old trees are one of the largest and tallest trees in the world. The ancient Sequoias of California are the largest living things by volume on Earth. Many adventure enthusiasts and families travel to Sequoia National Park to witness these amazing trees in person. As people, we get drawn to large natural beauty, and we love to learn the history.

A Background of the Sequoias

 Sequoias are found in the Northwest United States including Northern California, Oregon, and Washington. They have the ability to grow 30 feet in diameter and 250 feet tall. These are massive trees known to be skyscrapers of the natural world. We, as humans, are in awe at some of the oldest living things on the planet. The Sequoias have been living, on record, for more than 3,500 years.

They grow along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range inland at about 5,000-7,000 feet above sea level. The mountain air allows the trees’ cones to open and release seeds. Sequoias require a good amount of sun and high quantities of water, which concludes why they’re living up in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range.

Scientists Worry About Their Health

Usually, Sequoias will pass away under their own weight, but many scientists are seeing some Sequoias die off due to dehydration and stress. Droughts in California have proven to show signs of Sequoias dealing with health problems. This problem doesn’t affect all Sequoias though, which is a very promising sign. The problem, scientists believe, depends on the location of the trees. The location can have issues such as weather, density of trees, fire suppression, and much more.

Although, fire suppression helps with the longevity and health of Sequoias. Fires can stimulate growth for Sequoias because fire helps to release the seeds from the cones, recycle nutrients in the soil, and reduce competition from other trees in the area. It also removes undergrowth and exposes bare soil.

Little Known Facts About Sequoias

There has been evidence of Natives and other people living in the Sequoia area for 9,000 years. The preservation of these sites is protected under the Archeological Resources Protection Act. When the giant Sequoias were discovered in California during the gold rush in 1852, the tree became a planting trend in European castle lords’ English gardens. Having exotic gardens among the royalty became a very fashionable trend.

Many people think that you have to go to the Sequoia National Park to witness these marvelous trees, but in fact, you can find them among European countries including England, Scotland, and France. You can also plant them yourself if you are so inclined. Of course, if this is something you’re interested in, you have to do your research. The climate and weather for a Sequoia needs to be perfect for them to be healthy and long-lasting.


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