Why do plants lose their leaves in autumn?

You may see it in the garden: the foliage of your vegetable, ornamental, and deciduous plants is starting to turn yellow, black, and fall. Autumn is here. Falling leaves in autumn is an adaptive strategy that allows plants to survive the harsh winter and prepare for their recovery the following spring, when conditions become more favorable for growth. Why do plants lose their foliage during autumn/winter? Reduced daylight: As days get shorter, plants trigger physiological responses. Leaves contain chlorophyll, which is necessary for photosynthesis, but chlorophyll production becomes less efficient due to the lack of light. As a result, the plant loses its ability to produce food through photosynthesis, and it is more efficient for it to shed its leaves. Conserving resources: Before losing their leaves, plants reabsorb essential nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from the leaves. These nutrients are stored for reuse during growth in the spring. The root system is present and will continue to develop. Perennial plants will develop their foliage again the following spring with the increase in daylight. Reducing the risk of disease Leaves are often home to fungi and pests. By losing them in the fall, plants reduce the risk of fungal infections and diseases, which helps them survive during the winter. Protection against frost Leaves are vulnerable to frost. By losing them, plants reduce damage caused by cold temperatures, because leaves contain water and can freeze, which damages cells. Preventing water loss Plants lose their leaves to survive harsh winter conditions. By losing their leaves, they reduce water loss due to transpiration and thus limit the risk of drying out during the cold and dry months. At the Farm we respect the natural cycle of plants, we do not use a heated greenhouse. The plants are grown outdoors, so in the fall or winter they are pruned, usually without foliage or with brown foliage that will soon fall off. Be patient, they will bloom again next spring!