Leaf burst in spring

It is that time of year again (in the northern hemisphere) that deciduous trees at first start, to swell their buds. These increase in size until the leaves burst out of them.

This is stimulated by warmer temperatures, longer days and stronger sun rays. It triggers a chemical reaction in the tree, that causes the buds to swell and then burst.

This is not a good indicator of the health of a tree as it is chemical driven.

It is whether the tree can support these leaves, that is the best indication of the health of the tree. This assessment should be undertaken a few weeks after leaf burst.

This assessment can be affected if the young soft leaves are damaged by a late frost. As this can kill these leaves. The tree in time will create a new flush of leaves, but at great expense, due to the extra energy expended.

This is why deciduous trees lose their leaves, they cannot protect them from frost.