Look at the same tree in spring, summer, fall and winter. It looks like four different trees! But it is one tree, changing with the seasons.
Key idea
Many trees grow new leaves in spring, are full and green in summer, change color and drop their leaves in fall, and rest bare in winter. Evergreens stay green all year.
Why it works
In winter there is less light and the water in the ground may freeze. Leaves would not work well, so many trees drop them and rest. Before winter, the tree has already made tiny buds on its branches. In spring, the buds open into new leaves.
Worked example: Let's think it through
A maple tree has no leaves in winter. Is it dead?
- Look closely at the tips of its twigs.
- You can see small buds there.
- The buds hold next spring's leaves.
Answer: No. The tree is resting.
Common mistake
Children often think trees die in winter because they are bare. They are resting. The buds for next spring's leaves are already on the branches.
For the grown-up. Pick one tree near your home and take a photo of it once a month for a year. In winter, look closely at a twig together and find the buds.