Why do they paint tree trunks white and what benefit does it have?
Far from being decorative, painting the trunk white is a key technique to strengthen and prolong the life of trees. In squares, fields and gardens it is common to see trees with their trunks painted white. Although many believe that this is an aesthetic decision, in reality it responds to a preventive technique widely used in gardening and fruit production. This method helps protect the bark and improve the overall health of the plant.
The practice is called liming and consists of applying a mixture of slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) and water to the clean trunk. This white layer works as a physical and thermal barrier. It is placed from the base to a safe height, with a uniform texture to prevent it from cracking when it dries.Lime liming offers several specific benefits:• It acts as a barrier against insects, making it difficult for ants and other pests to ascend.• It reflects sunlight, reducing damage from direct radiation in summer.• It reduces thermal stress, avoiding cracks due to sudden changes in temperature.• It reduces the risk of diseases, by protecting the bark from cracks that can be an entryway for fungi and bacteria.This point is key in regions where there is a large temperature range between day and night.How to apply it correctlyBefore painting, it is advisable to clean the trunk to remove dirt, moss or lichens. The mixture is then applied with a brush, without creating a layer that is too thick. The ideal is to repeat the process once a year, since rain and natural wear and tear reduce its protective effect. When done properly, whitewashing does not harm the tree. On the contrary, it is a simple and inexpensive measure that improves your resistance and contributes to healthier development in the long term.
