Exploding trees. It doesn't quite happen the way it’s portrayed on social media.

Forecasters warn an extreme winter storm could trigger rare “exploding trees” across the Upper Midwest as temperatures plunge below zero, causing sap inside trees to freeze and crack bark. The storm is expected to bring widespread snow,

Tree sap is mostly water with sugars and minerals, and like many liquids, it expands when it freezes. Gradual freezes usually don’t harm trees — even if it gradually cools to subzero — but plunging temperature swings cause uneven freezing and internal pressure. This stress can crack the bark and wood, producing what sounds like a loud pop.

If you’ve ever planted a young tree, you know how much care they need, especially when cold weather rolls in. Winter brings freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and sudden temperature swings that can lead to bark cracking and splitting. These issues can ...

Once leaves drop from trees, splitting, peeling, bleached or oozing bark may become more noticeable. The cause can range from normal bark development to environmental causes or disease. If tree bark is peeling, this could be normal. The bark of many young ...