By Amanda Shepperd, University of Nebraska Extension Master Gardener
Just like Fall colors, the conifers or evergreen trees stay green year-round. Have you ever wondered why or how they are able to stay this way? They have a number of adaptations that help out. This is achieved through the adaptation of the shape of their leaves. The evergreens have strong leaves that are rolled up as long, thin needles with a waxy coating. The needle leaf shape enables the evergreens to conserve water during the summer and winter to allow the photosynthesis process to continue. This is why the leaves can remain attached longer and stay green all year. The needle leaves of evergreens are shed in a two-year cycle. So it is okay when your evergreen is looking a little thin once in a while.