Why do deciduous trees grow faster than evergreens?

Deciduous trees grow faster than evergreens because they prioritise rapid growth during the growing season to maximise sunlight capture. They invest in broad, thin leaves with high photosynthetic efficiency but lose them in winter to conserve energy. Evergreens, on the other hand, grow slower because they retain their needles year-round, which are adapted for harsh conditions and nutrient conservation. This trade-off allows deciduous trees to dominate in fertile, temperate climates, while evergreens thrive in less hospitable environments.