From ReForest London:

Did you know that cold temperatures are not just a challenge for trees—they’re essential for their survival and renewal?

Many temperate tree species, such as oaks, maples, and fruit-bearing trees, require a period of winter dormancy to regulate their growth cycles. This “chilling requirement” ensures that buds do not sprout prematurely during unseasonable warm spells, which could leave them vulnerable to late frosts.

During this period, trees undergo physiological changes:

Their metabolism slows, conserving energy.

Hormonal changes prepare buds for synchronized spring emergence.

Deciduous trees shed leaves to minimize water loss in freezing conditions.

Winter is nature’s way of resetting the growth cycle—ensuring that when spring arrives, trees awaken with full strength and vigor!