We love the colors of fall. With all that red, orange, brown, and gold, there is also a hint of green from evergreens like juniper and pine. Why do they stay that way, and how does that benefit them when all other trees drop their leaves?

We’ll tell you!

Their needles conserve more water than deciduous leaves

Have you ever wondered why evergreens have needles instead of broader leaves like an oak? When deciduous leaves turn different colors in the fall, the tree stops the food-making process of photosynthesizing. This is not the case in evergreens, which photosynthesize all year long.

This is because the needle’s shape and its waxy coating play an integral part in allowing the tree to conserve more water and nutrients in cold temperatures. As such, their needles stay green and attached to the tree longer. When the needles reach the end of their lifespan and shed, they can go unnoticed behind new growth.

Early browning or needle drop in evergreens

If the needles of your evergreen are suddenly browning and dropping prematurely, get it checked out by an ISA Certified Arborist. It could be an indication that your evergreen isn’t getting the water or nutrients it needs, or it’s fighting:

• Aphid infestation
• Over- or under-fertilization
• Borer infestation
• Needle blight

Your arborist will suggest a proper tree health care routine to keep your evergreens green and healthy.

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