Why Do Maple Trees Shed Leaves in the Fall?

A maple tree begins to lose its leaves.

The maple tree (family Aceraceae) is a deciduous tree. NASA's Science Network defines a deciduous tree as one whose leaves change color in the fall and drop to the ground. Does this Spark an idea?

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Energy
- A lot of energy is needed to maintain all these leaves!
  
  It takes a lot of work for a maple tree to build and maintain its leaves. Having the ability to shed its leaves in the fall gives the tree a chance to rest and conserve energy during the winter.
Preparation
- Gathering sunlight, water and nutrients
  
  The trees prepare in advance for the onset of winter by dropping their leaves before they become damaged by harsh conditions.
Water
- Water is essential for the survival of a maple tree.
  
  During the winter, it is difficult for the tree to maintain its water balance because there is less water available in the soil.
Dormancy
- Dormancy sets in and the tree begins its resting period.
  
  Unable to maintain the level of moisture needed in the tissue cells of the leaves, the tree becomes dormant.
Abscission Layer
- The abscission layer cuts the leaf from the twig.
  
  According to the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, a layer of corky tissue, known as the abscission layer, cuts the leaf from the twig and seals the leaf scar from the dry winter air. This reduces the amount of water and nutrients the tree would otherwise lose during the winter.

Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Paul Keleher Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of John Talbot Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Gordana Adamovic-Mladenovic Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Robert S. Donovan Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Judith Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Paige Gauge

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Why Do Maple Trees Shed Leaves in the Fall?

Energy

Preparation

Water

Dormancy

Abscission Layer

References

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