Photo: Silo Trees in Colorado

Trees growing in silos, near Lyons, Colorado

Occasionally we see a sight like this as we drive through agricultural areas -- trees poking out of the tops of abandoned grain silos.

The Missouri Department of Conservation's Web site has a page about Silo Trees, which offers this explanation of the phenomenon:

Silos, whether of wood, tile, brick or concrete, usually contain rich silage remains. Open to the rain and sun and providing protection from the winter cold, they provide a fertile if unusual habitat for trees.

Nature, a consummate matchmaker, finds ways to introduce trees to these special environments. Perhaps birds or squirrels bring tree seeds to these silos, or maybe the old foundations shift a bit to allow dormant tree roots to push up.

The trees in these narrow environments typically grow tall quickly to reach the sun. As they strive and flourish, they testify to nature's tenacity and to the bounty of life in Missouri.

I photographed these silo trees in Colorado along State Highway 66, just east of the town of Lyons.