Why Leafy Trees Change Their Look During Different Seasons - Explained for 9-Year-Olds

Why Do Leafy Trees Change Their Look from Season to Season?

Leafy trees, like maple and oak, change how they look during the year because of the seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Let's explore why this happens!

1. Spring: Fresh Green Leaves Grow

In spring, the weather gets warmer and there is more sunlight. Trees wake up from their winter sleep and start to grow new leaves. These leaves are green because of a special green color called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll helps the tree catch sunlight to make food.

2. Summer: Full and Green Leaves

During summer, the leaves are fully grown and very green. The tree uses its green leaves to make food with sunlight, water, and air. This helps the tree stay strong and healthy.

3. Fall (Autumn): Leaves Change Color and Fall Off

When fall comes, the days get shorter and it's cooler. The tree stops making food and the chlorophyll goes away. Without green color, other colors in the leaves like yellow, orange, red, and brown show up. After a while, the leaves fall off the tree.

4. Winter: Leafless Trees Rest

In winter, most leafy trees have no leaves. This helps the tree save water and energy during the cold months. The tree rests and gets ready for spring again.

Summary:

• Spring: New green leaves grow.
• Summer: Leaves are green and full of life.
• Fall: Leaves change color and fall off.
• Winter: Trees rest without leaves.

That's why leafy trees look different during each season! They have a special way to live through the whole year by changing their leaves.