Why Haven't The Leaves Fallen Off My Tree This Winter?

We are deep into the cold days of winter and looking around the Columbia Valley one can’t help but notice trees which are usually bare of leaves at this time of year are still full of brown dead leaves. So what gives? Is there something wrong? Should I be concerned about the health of my tree? All valid questions.

We have been dealing with many calls in regards to this unusual occurrence of leaves remaining on trees this winter. Remember that amazing late fall weather we experienced in October? We were able to enjoy wearing shorts and t-shirts well into October as the temperatures were consistently 10-15 degrees warmer than normal for that time of year. This weather anomaly also had an impact on our trees and shrubs that require colder weather and reduced daylight hours to trigger the process to prepare for dormant season. I for one know I put off my usual cold weather preparations around the yard this fall as I was lured into thinking the cold weather was still a long ways off! When the weather cools in fall tree branches begin to develop what are called ‘abscission’ cells. These are cells or growth that essentially scissor off the dead and dying leaves and seal up the stem attachments. Due to the warm weather many trees were late in producing these cells and leaves were killed with the first frosts arriving leaving the leaves attached.

Don’t worry your trees will be fine and they’re overall health is not impacted. The leaves will eventually fall off and new leaves will grow again come spring! If you have any concerns about your trees don’t hesitate in contacting us and one of our Certified Arborists will gladly schedule an assessment of your trees and property.