leaf-out
Trees unfurl foliage
Leaf-out is the seasonal emergence of leaves on deciduous trees and shrubs, marking the transition from bare branches to full foliage in spring.
The timing of leaf-out varies by species and climate, and has become a key indicator in climate research: Earlier leaf-out dates suggest warming temperatures.
Also called leafing out.
phenology
Vegetation's spring emergence
- emergenceComing into existence
- growing seasonTime crops can mature
- foliationLeaf formation process
- vernalRelating to spring
ecology
Upper woodland leaf layer
- transpirationBotanical water vapor release
- food webInterconnected predator-prey relationships
- woodland floorGround beneath trees
- spring ephemeralShort-lived woodland wildflower
climate
Sustained temperature increases over time
- frost riskDanger of subfreezing temperatures
- climate adaptationAdjusting to environmental shifts
- frost dateExpected freezing day estimate
- environmental changeAlteration in natural systems
green-up
Vegetation's spring emergence
- emergenceComing into existence
- growing seasonTime crops can mature
- foliationLeaf formation process
forest canopy
Upper woodland leaf layer
- transpirationBotanical water vapor release
- food webInterconnected predator-prey relationships
- woodland floorGround beneath trees
warming trends
Sustained temperature increases over time
- frost riskDanger of subfreezing temperatures
- climate adaptationAdjusting to environmental shifts
- frost dateExpected freezing day estimate