In temperate climates, trees typically shed their leaves in the fall, also known as autumn. This season, which spans from September to November in the Northern Hemisphere, is characterized by shorter days, cooler temperatures, and reduced daylight hours. As the days shorten, the trees begin to prepare for the cold winter months by slowing down their growth and storing energy.

During winter, there’s less sunlight and the temperatures are too low for efficient photosynthesis (the process of turning sunlight into food). Rather than spending energy to maintain delicate leaves that can’t do their job, the tree sheds them and enters a state of dormancy, similar to hibernation. 3. Protection from Snow

As the tree prepares to shed its leaves, it: