Q: Whorls are rows of branches that grow from the trunk at approximately the same height. Counting whorls is an option for conifers, or evergreen trees, but isn't very useful for broadleaf trees, like oak or sycamore. This method isn't as accurate as counting the rings, but it's a way to estimate the tree's age without having to kill or injure it. Conifers produce whorls annually at regular intervals. Deciduous, or broadleaf trees, produce them irregularly, making it difficult to get an accurate count. It's also easiest to count the whorls of a young conifer. You might not be able to see the top of a tall, mature conifer, and there would be more irregularities in its growth patterns. At the base of the tree, look for a row of branches that grow at the same level, a bare length of trunk, then another row of branches. These rows are the whorls; count them until you've reached the top of the tree. You might see single branches growing between whorls or 2 whorls spaced closely together. These are irregularities that might indicate an injury or unusual weather conditions that year, so don't count them. Check beneath the first row of branches for evidence of prior growth. Look for knots in the trunk and stubs where branches once grew, which you'll count as additional whorls. For instance, suppose your tree has 8 recognizable whorls. Beneath the first row, you can see a few stubs that emerge from the trunk around the same level. There's also a row of 2 or 3 knots under the stubs. You'd count the stubs and knots as additional whorls, so your total count would be 10. The tree germinated and grew as a seedling for a few years before it started sprouting woody whorls. Add 2 to 4 to your whorl count to factor in this early growth. If your whorl count was 10, your final age estimate would be between 12 and 14 years.
A: Count whorls to estimate the age of a conifer. Count the rows of branches growing at the same height. Include any stubs or knots at the bottom of the trunk. Add 2 to 4 years to account for seedling growth.

Q: Even if you don't like to run or play video games, try to do something your brother or sister enjoys. They'll appreciate that you showed an interest and, even more importantly, will enjoy spending time with you. Take the opportunity to ask them more about the activity they enjoy. This will allow them to open up and can get the conversation going. Regardless of how old (or young) you are, games are a great way to bond with your sibling. Try to learn a new game together or pick one from your childhood that brings back memories. Don't choose a game that has a history of causing arguments. If, for example, you can't get through a game of Scrabble without name calling and arguments, be sure to pick another game. Playing a basketball game outside or a good, old-fashioned game of miniature golf counts too! Relive happy moments together by looking at family photo albums. You'll enjoy looking back at some of life's best moments and will hopefully remember all of the good times with your sibling. Whether it's a weekend trip or a movie marathon, establish a tradition with your brother or sister. You can do it on a monthly or yearly basis. For something like a trip, it may make sense to do it yearly. Movie marathon's though, can be done on a monthly basis. Try alternating who picks the movies and snacks as part of the tradition!
A: Do their favorite activities. Have a game night. Look at family photo albums together. Establish a sibling tradition.

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A:
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