Getting to the root of a tree’s habits

THERE'S quite a lot going on in the world of trees at present. The leaves of deciduous trees in Ireland change colour and drop to the ground quite late in the autumn.

The timing varies from species to species and, to a lesser extent, it depends on the weather. But it's usually well into October before things really start happening.

But trees have to be able to anticipate events and make advance preparations. These preparations are happening right now.