How do trees survive winter?

As the temperatures start to drop and the days get shorter, trees start preparing for winter. During this period, trees go into dormancy, where growth slows down, and they focus on conserving energy rather than producing it.

How deciduous trees survive winter

Deciduous trees, such as maples, and oaks transfer energy from their leaves to their roots in autumn, where it is stored throughout the winter. This process causes the leaves to change colour, showing a visible sign of this internal shift. In most cases during this energy transfer, the leaves are no longer needed, so they fall off. This conservation allows the tree to kickstart new growth when spring arrives. This process also helps prevent damage from water freezing and expanding, as a large proportion of the water within a tree is held within the leaf.

The roots provide crucial storage for nutrients and energy reserves during winter dormancy. Located below ground, they’re less susceptible to freezing, and by storing energy here, trees can survive the winter and emerge ready to grow once spring arrives.

How evergreen trees survive winter

Evergreen trees such as pines, firs and spruces, adopt a different survival strategy. Unlike deciduous trees, they keep their leaves or needles all year round. Although their needles and leaves tend to hold much less water than broad leaves, they have a waxy coating that shields them from the cold and helps to conserve water. This allows them to survive cold temperatures more easily. In addition, the leaves of evergreen trees contain natural chemicals that act as antifreeze, preventing ice from forming inside the leaves and causing damage.

Final thoughts

Winter dormancy doesn’t just help trees survive, it’s essential to their health and growth cycle. This period of rest allows trees to conserve energy, protect themselves from frost damage, and get ready for another growing season when temperatures rise in Spring.