Walnut Trees at MMS

You’re walking around Millburn Middle School and come across a tree, older and bigger than the building itself. Meet the black walnut tree. According to our town forester, Stacie Phelps, an average black walnut tree, or juglans tree, is known to grow around 2 feet per year. Also, since walnut trees grow slower than most trees, it is likely that the black walnut tree outside our school has been here for a while, or is a bit less than 250 years old. This leads to the result of the tight rings in the trunk of the tree, which strengthens the wood. Since the wood from this tree is so strong both in color and strength, it is often named one of the best woods for woodworking and architecture. This might seem like the only wonder the walnut tree species in general has to offer. However, its wood is not the only thing people admire.

Although black walnuts have a high chance of staining, they are still able to be eaten, with people eating them since a whopping 7000 B.C. Did you know that a black walnut’s color was originally used for ink? The longer a walnut sits in boiling water, the darker its dye will be. However, the juglan chemical is dangerous and can unfortunately result in a skin rash if more than the suggested amount is consumed. Taking this into consideration, the contents of black walnuts can still be used to reduce swelling of injuries if taken efficiently.

Humans are not the only ones who are fascinated with the beauty of this tree. Animals throughout nature's wonders love it too, such as over 100 species of caterpillars and moths. These species also exist as an important food source for birds. As well as that, the tree nuts attract many mammals like squirrels and mice during the winters, acting as their source of food. 

If you wish to see the tree in person, it can be found near the doors to the left, if you’re facing the main entrance of the building. Thank you to Ms. Phelps (the town forester) for providing us with insight on this topic!