Do you know which trees in your area change colours before the onset of winter? Are there trees that shed their leaves around this time? Why do you think this happens? Find out and document the local names of these trees.
Deciduous trees shed their leaves before winter.
They shed leaves to conserve water and energy during the cold, dry winter months when there is less sunlight for photosynthesis.
Common examples include Peepal, Neem, Gulmohar, Amaltas, and various fruit trees.
Some trees change leaf colour before shedding. Leaves turn yellow, orange, or red due to the breakdown of chlorophyll, revealing other pigments.
Students should document local names of such trees in their region and observe the timing of leaf fall.
Explanation
The chapter mentions on Page 3 that some trees and shrubs bloom with the onset of vasanta (spring), while in some places they shed their leaves or change colour as sharad (autumn) approaches. This is connected to the seasonal cycle and how plant life adapts to changing weather conditions.
Solution Steps
Trees that shed leaves before winter are called deciduous trees
Leaves are shed to conserve water and energy during cold, dry winter months
Less sunlight in winter reduces photosynthesis capacity
Common examples include Peepal, Neem, Gulmohar, Amaltas, and fruit trees
Leaf colour changes to yellow, orange, or red due to chlorophyll breakdown
Students should document local tree names and observe leaf fall timing