SUN SCALD Meaning and
Definition
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Sun scald refers to a condition commonly observed in plants, particularly in trees, where the bark and tissues become damaged or injured due to excessive exposure to sunlight. It is primarily caused by extreme heat and the intense rays of the sun, especially during hot, dry, and sunny weather conditions. Sun scald typically affects newly planted or young trees with thin bark, as they are more vulnerable to damage compared to older or more established trees.
The progression of sun scald typically involves the direct and prolonged exposure of the tree's bark to the sun's rays, which causes the bark tissues to overheat. The intense sunlight often results in the bark tissues becoming too hot and expanding rapidly, followed by sudden cooling, which leads to the bursting of cells and the subsequent damage to the tree's bark layer. This can weaken the tree's defenses and make it susceptible to further injury or infection by pests and diseases.
Symptoms of sun scald may include discolored or sunken areas on the bark, bark peeling or cracking, and in severe cases, the death of branches or the entire tree. To prevent sun scald, measures such as planting the tree in appropriate locations with shade and providing protection from intense sunlight, using reflective materials to deflect the sun's rays, and regular watering during extreme weather conditions are often recommended.
Overall, sun scald is a damaging condition that affects plants, primarily trees, due to the excessive exposure to sunlight, resulting in bark and tissue damage, which can weaken the tree's defenses and overall health.
Etymology of SUN SCALD
The word "sun scald" is a compound noun that combines the words "sun" and "scald".
The etymology of "sun" can be traced back to the Old English word "sunne", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "sunnon". This ultimately goes back to the Proto-Indo-European root "sóh₂wl̥", meaning "sun".
The word "scald" comes from the Old English word "scealdan", which means "to scald or burn". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skeldaną".
When combined, "sun scald" refers to the condition in which plants get damaged or burned by excessive sunlight or heat.
