Most (not all) conifers keep their leaves year round, while many broadleaved trees (including all of those that grow in the Methow) shed their leaves in the fall and grow new ones in the spring—an approach to life that seems wasteful, if not downright profligate, on its face.

Why coniferous trees keep their leaves?

This shape allows the evergreens to conserve water, which is needed for photosynthesis. Because they have more water than their deciduous cousins, their leaves stay green, and stay attached longer. Evergreen needles also have a very waxy coating that also helps save water during summer and winter.

Does coniferous forest shed their leaves?

Coniferous trees are trees that have needle-like structures instead of leaves in order to reduce water loss in the cold regions of their existence. ... Unlike deciduous trees, they do not have a season dedicated to the shedding of leaves. They replace old leaves throughout the year.