"Deciduous" refers to a type of tree or shrub that sheds its leaves each year. This shedding of leaves typically occurs in the fall or autumn seasons, and the tree remains bare or dormant during the winter months. Deciduous trees are common in temperate climates, where there are distinct seasons. Examples of deciduous trees include oak, maple, birch, and beech.

"Evergreen" is a term describing trees that retain their leaves (needles) or foliage throughout the year, regardless of the season. Unlike deciduous trees, evergreen treesdo not shed all of their leaves at once in the fall or autumn. Instead, they maintain their leaves or needles, which remain on the plant for an extended period, sometimes several years.

Also known as flowering trees, represent the largest and most diverse type. They are characterized by the presence of flowers, which are reproductive structures that produce seeds enclosed in a protective ovary. Angiosperms are found in a wide range of environments, from deserts to rainforests, and they play a crucial role in ecosystems by providing food, oxygen, and habitats for various organisms.

Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing trees that include conifers, cycads, Ginkgo biloba, and gnetophytes. Gymnosperms do not produce flowers. They produce seeds that are exposed on the surface of cone scales or other structures. The term "gymnosperm" comes from the Greek words "gymnos," meaning naked, and "sperma," meaning seed, referring to seeds are not enclosed within an ovary.

Arboretums play a vital role in conserving biodiversity by maintaining diverse collections of trees and woody plants. They often include rare, endangered, or native species, providing a safe haven for plant diversity and contributing to genetic conservation efforts.

The extensive root systems of trees in arboretums help prevent soil erosion, stabilize slopes, and improve soil health. Trees absorb excess water, reduce runoff, and enhance soil structure, promoting nutrient cycling and supporting healthy ecosystems.

Arboretums are green spaces that give us recreation areas in which to relax and connect with friends and nature in populated areas. They contribute to improving air quality, reducing noise pollution, and providing habitat for desired wildlife in urban environments.

Trees act as air purifiers and coolants. Their shade reduces urban heat, combating the heat island effect caused by human activities. Trees absorb CO2, emit oxygen, and beautify cities, offering green spaces for relaxation and breaking the monotony of concrete landscapes.

Western North Carolina winters consist of storms that produce snow, sleet, freezing rain or a wintry mix of multiple precipitation types due to the nature and atmospheric conditions that are commonly found in NC winter storms.

Western North Carolina spring is packed with fun special holidays, local events, and festivals. Trees bloom at botanical gardens and elsewhere, the days get warmer, and people start venturing outside more often.

Summer in Western NC is a great time for traditional music festivals, hiking and camping at state parks, or just escaping to the (slightly) cooler weather. There are many fun things to do and parks filled with trees to visit.

Fall color in the Western N.C. area begins in late September, with the highest elevations (above 6,000 feet) seeing the change first. During the next six weeks, fall color makes its way down the mountainsides into the valleys and foothills.