Why do pine trees stay green in winter?
Pine trees have thin, waxy needles that can stay on all winter long.
Pip’s answer
- Pine trees have thin, waxy needles that can stay on all winter long.
- The wax is like a coat that keeps the needles from drying out.
- Other trees drop their flat leaves, but pine needles stay snug and green.
- Ooh, some pine needles stay on the tree for years and years!
For grown-ups
Most pine trees are evergreens. Their needles are narrow with a waxy coating, so they lose little water and survive frozen winters when roots can't draw water. Pines replace needles gradually, so they stay green all year. Individual needles can last several years.
Ask your child: Can you feel the difference between a pine needle and a flat leaf?
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