Pine and spruce are examples of coniferous trees. They are the most common trees in Finnish forests and grow almost everywhere in Finland. Why is that?

The needles of coniferous trees are small and thin leaves. These needles have a waxy surface, which helps to prevent water from evaporating into the air from their surface. The needles are also very resistant to cold temperatures and frost. This is why pine and spruce trees do not drop their leaves for the winter. When the spring arrives, coniferous trees are ready to photosynthesize straight away. 

Pine does not require a lot of water, but it does need a lot of sunlight. Spruce, on the other hand, requires more water but does not need as much sunlight to thrive. 

Coniferous trees reproduce with seeds that form in a structure known as a cone. When the seeds are ready, the scales of the cone open and the seeds are released. They can travel long distances with the help of the wind. 

The seeds of coniferous trees are a favorite food for squirrels and crossbills.

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