Why do leaves fall in autumn?

Leaves fall in autumn as part of a plant’s preparation for winter. Deciduous trees shed their leaves to conserve water and energy when resources like sunlight and water become scarce. During this process, chlorophyll breaks down, causing the green colour to fade and revealing yellow, orange, and red pigments. A layer of cells forms at the base of the leaf stem, cutting it off from the tree and allowing it to fall. This adaptation helps trees survive cold and dry conditions, ensuring their growth in the spring.