Emily Robinson, Content Officer at the Forestry Commission, introduces the autumn season changes we can expect in woodlands as trees and wildlife begin their preparation for winter. September marks the beginning of a dramatic transformation period within our woodlands and forests. While summer's full green canopy still dominates our woodlands, subtle changes are already underway that will reshape our leafy landscapes over the coming months. We are now losing nearly three minutes of sunlight each day, and these shortening daylight hours, paired with cooling temperatures, are triggering changes that will soon become visible. The trees are beginning their quiet preparation for winter. Person pausing on a forest walk to take in the autumn sunset at Leigh Woods. Credit: Forestry England ## The difference between deciduous and evergreen trees Understanding which trees shed their leaves helps explain what we'll witness in the coming weeks. Deciduous trees drop their leaves annually, whilst evergreens retain theirs throughout winter. Most broadleaf trees are deciduous, though there are some exceptions such as holly, which is an evergreen that keeps its glossy, spiky leaves year-round. Conifers on the other hand, tend to be evergreen, with exceptions such as European larch which are deciduous and will shed their needles each year. ## Why deciduous trees will soon shed their leaves The broad leaves that captured summer sunshine so efficiently are now becoming liabilities. In freezing temperatures, these large leaf surfaces would lose precious water and risk cellular damage from colder weather. Deciduous trees have already begun forming abscission layers – specialised barriers at the base of each leaf stem that gradually restrict the flow of nutrients and water. As autumn progresses, this layer will produce enzymes that methodically break down the cell walls that anchor each leaf to its branch. Eventually, even a gentle breeze will be enough to send the leaf spiralling towards the ground. Without leaves, trees can enter dormancy to dramatically conserve their energy. They retain moisture within their woody tissues to prevent dehydration, whilst their bare branches offer less resistance to winter winds and reduce the burden of snow settling on them. These clever adaptations allow trees to weather the colder months ahead with minimal stress, conserving their resources for spring's eventual return. Leaves changing colour in the Forest of Dean. Credit: Forestry England ## How evergreens are preparing for winter Rather than retreating completely, evergreen species will adjust their metabolism and physiology to maintain some activity throughout winter, whilst protecting themselves from harsh conditions. Scots pine needles may begin showing a subtly different blue-green colouration as they develop natural antifreeze compounds. Norway spruce branches will start adjusting their angle, preparing to shed heavy snow loads more effectively. This helps to prevent branches from snapping under excessive weight, and the downward slope also helps deflect harsh winds. By late October, conifer growth virtually ceases as trees redirect their energy towards survival rather than growth. The vulnerable bright green summer growth darkens and hardens to withstand freezing temperatures. Several species will also develop thicker waxy coatings on their needles to prevent water loss, as the frozen soil in winter makes water uptake more difficult. Autumn also brings more visible changes in conifers, as mature cones begin opening up on warm days to release their seeds. You might notice the contrast between this year's small green cones and the larger brown cones from previous years finally splitting apart. Meanwhile, new cone buds are already forming for next year's cycle! ## An optimal window for tree planting During the autumn and winter months, trees naturally redirect their energy from leaf and shoot production towards root development. This makes it the optimal time to plant trees. The seasonal shift makes newly planted saplings far more likely to survive, as they can focus entirely on establishing robust root systems without the demanding task of supporting active foliage. The cooler, wetter conditions typical of these months provide ideal establishment conditions. Increased rainfall delivers consistent moisture without the risk of summer drought stress, whilst lower temperatures reduce water loss through transpiration. Dormant trees also experience considerably less transplant shock compared to those moved during the growing season, as they're not actively producing new shoots and leaves that would place immediate demands on a disturbed root system. By the time spring comes, these well-established plantings will have already developed root networks that will support vigorous new growth. ## A feeding frenzy for wildlife The arrival of autumn marks the beginning of intense activity for woodland wildlife too as they prepare for winter alongside the trees. The year's collective seed and fruit production across the woodland is now reaching its peak; with hazelnuts, acorns, beechnuts and berries becoming increasingly abundant. This autumn bounty will drive much of the wildlife behaviour you'll observe over the coming weeks, from squirrels frantically collecting nuts to birds like jays taking acorns for their winter stores. These interactions benefit trees as much as animals. The Eurasian jay is considered by some to be the most important factor in oak dispersal and spread, as they store thousands of acorns each autumn yet fail to retrieve many of them.[1] Meanwhile, berry-eating birds like thrushes and blackbirds consume fruits whole, dispersing viable seeds through their droppings across wide areas. This helpful wildlife-driven seed dispersal helps trees to colonise new territories and maintains genetic diversity between distant woodland populations. A Eurasian jay (_Garrulus glandarius_) sitting on a branch. Credit: Pixabay ## A woodland's underground economy As leaves fall and begin to cover the woodland floor over the coming months, they’ll become the foundation of the soil’s underground economy. The leaves provide essential food for an army of decomposers – earthworms, millipedes, springtails and countless soil bacteria and fungi – who will work tirelessly to break it all down. Look out for the gradual disappearance of leaf litter through autumn and winter as these active decomposers turn complex plant tissue back into nutrients. The nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium locked within the fallen leaves will slowly release back into the soil, which creates a nutrient-rich zone around each tree’s root system. These nutrients will be reclaimed by the trees to fuel growth in the spring. Oak leaves covering the forest floor at Cannock Chase. Credit: Forestry England ## Watching the transformations unfold Over the next few months, every walk in a woodland will reveal new chapters in this unfolding transformation. Watch for the first yellow speckles on birch leaves, listen for the increased activity of birds making the most of abundant berry supplies and enjoy the sound of leaves crunching beneath your feet. Each observation connects you to processes that have shaped these ecosystems for thousands of years. Whether you're managing woodland or simply seeking to understand the natural world around you, autumn offers numerous opportunities to witness the intricate relationships that make our forests resilient and endlessly fascinating. The transformation is already beginning – the question is, what will you notice first? Learn about ways to help support your woodland through this period with our blog that provides 5 tips for managing your woodland this autumn. * * * 1] [Foraging Eurasian Jays (_Garrulus glandarius_) prefer oaks and acorns in central Europe

My vision was based on sharing, not exploitation – and here’s why it’s still worth fighting for

Richard Chapman, Deputy Director of Defra’s Nature for Climate Fund Tree Programme, highlights the latest annual statistics, what has been achieved over the past year and what is to come. Yesterday, the Forestry Commission published their latest set of Provisional Woodland Statistics and Key Performance Indicators, covering 2024-25. Tree planting in England is now at its highest recorded rate in over 20 years. The figures show that over the past year, 5,765 hectares of new woodland were established in England. This means that woodland creation rates over the past year were 27% higher than in 2023/24, and 156% higher than in 2021/22 (when the Tree Planting Programme was in its infancy). In addition, 888,000 trees were planted outside woodland. This is the equivalent to 1,399 hectares, bringing the total area of tree canopy established and numbers of trees planted to 7,164 hectares, or 10.4 million trees. An equivalent to 10,000 football pitches. These planting figures are a very real testament to the dedication of all our partners, communities and the many individuals who have rolled up their sleeves to get trees in the ground. This significant milestone provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on all the hard work right across the sector over the past year, and to look ahead at what is to come. I joined the Tree Planting Programme in August 2024 and right from the outset, I've been incredibly impressed by the passion and expertise, and how we all work together to drive tree planting projects of all shapes and sizes right across the country. We’re making a meaningful difference: reconnecting people with nature, restoring our landscapes, and putting down the roots for a greener, more resilient future. Trees are at the heart of our mission to support biodiversity, combat climate change and create thousands of green jobs across the country. This year, we’ve continued to make significant strides. In March 2025, we announced the creation of the first new national forest in over 30 years. The Western Forest will see 20 million trees planted across the West of England, bringing nature closer to where people live and work. It’s a landmark moment and one that signals this government’s long-term commitment to transforming our environment. Nature Minister Mary Creagh (middle) with Forest of Avon CEO Alex Stone (left) and Joanna Lewis, Chief Exec of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (right). Credit: First Avenue Photography ## The Spending Review settlement Earlier this month, the Chancellor announced the outcome of the 2025 Spending Review, with a clear focus on investment and growth. The settlement included the largest investment in nature in our history: over £7 billion committed to nature’s recovery. That includes £816 million for tree planting and £85 million for peatland restoration over the Spending Review period. This funding isn’t just numbers on a page, it’s a catalyst for continued real, lasting change. It means that millions more trees can be planted across the country to help cool our cities, restore biodiversity, improve water quality and quantity, and capture carbon. Not only that, but this funding will also help to support our mental and physical health, as trees improve the air that we breathe, encourage exercise, and improve our mental wellbeing. The presence of trees leads to healthier, happier communities. A woodland creation site in England. Credit: Chris Waterfield ## Looking ahead to continue momentum Public support for our work is overwhelming. Over 90% of people in the UK believe forests and woodlands are essential for wildlife, and 84% support planting more trees to tackle climate change. This is why we are excited to continue in our work, to listen and deliver. To support this momentum, we’re investing in people by funding apprenticeships to build the skills we need to plant and care for our woodlands, now and into the future. The Government has supported the publication of a sector skills plan and will be investing alongside the sector in its implementation to support the growth of the sector and improve standards. Looking ahead, we're enabling community-led planting projects across England, having recently funded £1 million to The Tree Council to establish the new Trees Outside Woodland Fund, bringing trees to parks, schools, towns, cities and rural areas. Because everyone deserves access to nature, no matter where they live. We’re also determined to do our bit to ensure that the nation’s forest contribute a low carbon alternative to building the housing we need in the future. Using timber in buildings not only locks away carbon for the long term, but also replaces more carbon-intensive materials like concrete and steel, helping to reduce overall emissions. The UK is currently the second-largest importer of timber globally, but through our Timber in Construction Roadmap, we’re strengthening the domestic timber industry and supporting sustainable construction with British-grown wood. Beyond environmental gains, trees are also a powerful economic asset, supporting GDP growth, creating jobs in forestry, and boosting the leisure and tourism sectors that thrive in well-wooded landscapes. Stacked timber in the Forest of Dean. Crown copyright As the statistics show, this has been a year of real progress. But of course, the cliché remains that we know there’s much more to do. Our goal to increase woodland cover to 16.5% of England’s land area by 2050 is ambitious, but with continued investment, innovation, and collaboration to draw on all our collective passion and expertise, we can make it a reality. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey so far. Together, we’re planting the seeds of a greener, healthier future. Read the Forestry Commission's Provisional Woodland Statistics 2025 and Key Performance Indicators: Report for 2024-25 on GOV.UK.

Emily Robinson, Content Officer at the Forestry Commission, introduces the autumn season changes we can expect in woodlands as trees and wildlife begin their preparation for winter. September marks the beginning of a dramatic transformation period within our woodlands and forests. While summer's full green canopy still dominates our woodlands, subtle changes are already underway that will reshape our leafy landscapes over the coming months. We are now losing nearly three minutes of sunlight each day, and these shortening daylight hours, paired with cooling temperatures, are triggering changes that will soon become visible. The trees are beginning their quiet preparation for winter. Person pausing on a forest walk to take in the autumn sunset at Leigh Woods. Credit: Forestry England ## The difference between deciduous and evergreen trees Understanding which trees shed their leaves helps explain what we'll witness in the coming weeks. Deciduous trees drop their leaves annually, whilst evergreens retain theirs throughout winter. Most broadleaf trees are deciduous, though there are some exceptions such as holly, which is an evergreen that keeps its glossy, spiky leaves year-round. Conifers on the other hand, tend to be evergreen, with exceptions such as European larch which are deciduous and will shed their needles each year. ## Why deciduous trees will soon shed their leaves The broad leaves that captured summer sunshine so efficiently are now becoming liabilities. In freezing temperatures, these large leaf surfaces would lose precious water and risk cellular damage from colder weather. Deciduous trees have already begun forming abscission layers – specialised barriers at the base of each leaf stem that gradually restrict the flow of nutrients and water. As autumn progresses, this layer will produce enzymes that methodically break down the cell walls that anchor each leaf to its branch. Eventually, even a gentle breeze will be enough to send the leaf spiralling towards the ground. Without leaves, trees can enter dormancy to dramatically conserve their energy. They retain moisture within their woody tissues to prevent dehydration, whilst their bare branches offer less resistance to winter winds and reduce the burden of snow settling on them. These clever adaptations allow trees to weather the colder months ahead with minimal stress, conserving their resources for spring's eventual return. Leaves changing colour in the Forest of Dean. Credit: Forestry England ## How evergreens are preparing for winter Rather than retreating completely, evergreen species will adjust their metabolism and physiology to maintain some activity throughout winter, whilst protecting themselves from harsh conditions. Scots pine needles may begin showing a subtly different blue-green colouration as they develop natural antifreeze compounds. Norway spruce branches will start adjusting their angle, preparing to shed heavy snow loads more effectively. This helps to prevent branches from snapping under excessive weight, and the downward slope also helps deflect harsh winds. By late October, conifer growth virtually ceases as trees redirect their energy towards survival rather than growth. The vulnerable bright green summer growth darkens and hardens to withstand freezing temperatures. Several species will also develop thicker waxy coatings on their needles to prevent water loss, as the frozen soil in winter makes water uptake more difficult. Autumn also brings more visible changes in conifers, as mature cones begin opening up on warm days to release their seeds. You might notice the contrast between this year's small green cones and the larger brown cones from previous years finally splitting apart. Meanwhile, new cone buds are already forming for next year's cycle! ## An optimal window for tree planting During the autumn and winter months, trees naturally redirect their energy from leaf and shoot production towards root development. This makes it the optimal time to plant trees. The seasonal shift makes newly planted saplings far more likely to survive, as they can focus entirely on establishing robust root systems without the demanding task of supporting active foliage. The cooler, wetter conditions typical of these months provide ideal establishment conditions. Increased rainfall delivers consistent moisture without the risk of summer drought stress, whilst lower temperatures reduce water loss through transpiration. Dormant trees also experience considerably less transplant shock compared to those moved during the growing season, as they're not actively producing new shoots and leaves that would place immediate demands on a disturbed root system. By the time spring comes, these well-established plantings will have already developed root networks that will support vigorous new growth. ## A feeding frenzy for wildlife The arrival of autumn marks the beginning of intense activity for woodland wildlife too as they prepare for winter alongside the trees. The year's collective seed and fruit production across the woodland is now reaching its peak; with hazelnuts, acorns, beechnuts and berries becoming increasingly abundant. This autumn bounty will drive much of the wildlife behaviour you'll observe over the coming weeks, from squirrels frantically collecting nuts to birds like jays taking acorns for their winter stores. These interactions benefit trees as much as animals. The Eurasian jay is considered by some to be the most important factor in oak dispersal and spread, as they store thousands of acorns each autumn yet fail to retrieve many of them.[1] Meanwhile, berry-eating birds like thrushes and blackbirds consume fruits whole, dispersing viable seeds through their droppings across wide areas. This helpful wildlife-driven seed dispersal helps trees to colonise new territories and maintains genetic diversity between distant woodland populations. A Eurasian jay (_Garrulus glandarius_) sitting on a branch. Credit: Pixabay ## A woodland's underground economy As leaves fall and begin to cover the woodland floor over the coming months, they’ll become the foundation of the soil’s underground economy. The leaves provide essential food for an army of decomposers – earthworms, millipedes, springtails and countless soil bacteria and fungi – who will work tirelessly to break it all down. Look out for the gradual disappearance of leaf litter through autumn and winter as these active decomposers turn complex plant tissue back into nutrients. The nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium locked within the fallen leaves will slowly release back into the soil, which creates a nutrient-rich zone around each tree’s root system. These nutrients will be reclaimed by the trees to fuel growth in the spring. Oak leaves covering the forest floor at Cannock Chase. Credit: Forestry England ## Watching the transformations unfold Over the next few months, every walk in a woodland will reveal new chapters in this unfolding transformation. Watch for the first yellow speckles on birch leaves, listen for the increased activity of birds making the most of abundant berry supplies and enjoy the sound of leaves crunching beneath your feet. Each observation connects you to processes that have shaped these ecosystems for thousands of years. Whether you're managing woodland or simply seeking to understand the natural world around you, autumn offers numerous opportunities to witness the intricate relationships that make our forests resilient and endlessly fascinating. The transformation is already beginning – the question is, what will you notice first? Learn about ways to help support your woodland through this period with our blog that provides 5 tips for managing your woodland this autumn. * * * 1] [Foraging Eurasian Jays (_Garrulus glandarius_) prefer oaks and acorns in central Europe