<P> The petrifaction process occurs underground , when wood becomes buried under sediment or volcanic ash and is initially preserved due to a lack of oxygen which inhibits aerobic decomposition . Mineral - laden water flowing through the covering material deposits minerals in the plant 's cells ; as the plant 's lignin and cellulose decay , a stone mold forms in its place . The organic matter needs to become petrified before it decomposes completely . The process lasts millions of years . A forest where such material has petrified becomes known as a petrified forest . </P>
<P> The petrifaction process occurs underground , when wood becomes buried under sediment or volcanic ash and is initially preserved due to a lack of oxygen which inhibits aerobic decomposition . Mineral - laden water flowing through the covering material deposits minerals in the plant 's cells ; as the plant 's lignin and cellulose decay , a stone mold forms in its place . The organic matter needs to become petrified before it decomposes completely . The process lasts millions of years . A forest where such material has petrified becomes known as a petrified forest . </P>
how long does it take wood to petrified
how long does it take wood to petrified
millions of years
millions of years