Dendrochronology methods are used to study the response of tree rings to
environmental factors, where tree rings width are strongly influenced by environmental
factors especially climatic ones. In order to study tree rings of brutia pine in Kfarfo
forest –
Tartus, 12 dominant trees were selected, using increment drill two perpendicular core
samples at breast height from each tree were extracted. After treatment, the core samples
were cross dated. Tree-rings widths were measured to the nearest 0.01 mm. Consequently,
a series of 31 tree rings covering the period 1983-2013 was obtained. Results showed that,
tree rings of the years: 1998-1999, 2007-2008 and 2009-2010 were clearly narrow; while
rings of the years: 1985-1986, 1991-1992, and 2002-2003 were obviously wide. Whereas,
rings of the years: 1986-1987, 1994-1995, 1996 and 1997 were absent. Finally, results
reveal that, as precipitation decreased corresponding with temperature increase in the
growing season; narrow rings were recorded. While, increasing winter precipitation
corresponding with temperature decrease leaded to increase in ring width.
