There is nothing better than seeing trees flaunt fragrant flowers and green, glorious leaves in spring!

So, when will they sport their fresh new look?

While there’s no set date for all trees to break bud, we can use clues to predict when trees typically leaf out.

Find out when to expect spring tree sprout in your region and if you should be concerned about a late leaf out.

When Do Trees Leaf Out (By Region and Leaf Out Dates)

There are two ways trees know when to wake up for spring. First, they respond to noticeably warmer days after a stretch of cold temperatures in winter. At the same time, they react to a change in light duration, when shorter nights and longer days of sun exposure, spur new growth and development.

Below learn when trees will typically leaf out in your area. And remember, if there’s unusual weather in your area, like a mild or severe winter, trees may leaf out sooner or later than this.

  • Leaf Out Dates in the Midwest: Expect tree leaf out in the Midwest when warmer temperatures get on a steady schedule, around mid-April.
  • Leaf Out Dates in the Northeast:  Northeastern trees are adapted to take extra caution when it comes to spring leaf out since it can be devastating for leaves to be shocked by a sudden freeze. Because of this, trees in the Northeast leaf out late April to early May. This also commonly occurs in the Midwest.
  • Leaf Out Dates in the West: Western tree budbreaks can vary widely. From coastal California to mountainous Colorado, trees are exposed to a number of different climates. Expect western trees to leaf out fully by early May.
  • Leaf Out Dates in the South: Trees native to the South are well-adapted to the region’s warmer weather, so they don’t stay dormant for long. Trees in this region begin breaking bud as early as mid- March.

What If Your Tree Is Not Growing Leaves In Spring?

If you’ve noticed trees around the neighborhood budding while yours is barren, don’t panic! Just because spring is in full swing doesn’t mean your specific trees are ready to bloom or leaf out. 

For example, some trees, like birch and willows, leaf out early to lengthen their pre-summer food production time. On the other hand, trees, like oaks and elms, prolong their bud break to protect against sudden drops in early spring temperatures.

As long as tree buds are green on the inside, they’re alive and welljust waiting for their time to sprout. If you don’t spot buds or the buds are shriveled or black, that could indicate it's a problem.

Leafless Trees? Your Arborist Is Here To Help!

Related Blog Posts

Beech Tree Leaf Disease
Insect & Disease Issues

Beech Leaf Disease & The Ecosystem

Learn how Beech trees are prevalent in neighborhoods and forests, making up an important part of the overall ecosystem in helping fight climate change and providing food sources and shelters for animals and birds.
Read More
AS 285177860 Tubakia Maple
Leaf & Needle Problems

What Are These Water Marks On My Tree Leaves?

Tubakia leaf spot on oak is often confused with oak anthracnose. One way to tell them apart is the timing of leaf spots. Learn more.
Read More

Sign Up For Free Tree & Landscaping Tips! 

Subscribe to the "The Sapling," the Davey Blog's email newsletter, for the latest tips to keep your outdoor space in tip-top shape throughout the year.

Plus, receive a free instant download of our landscape seasonal checklists when you sign up!

Get In Touch With Us!

We pride ourselves at Davey Tree on providing prompt, professional and personalized service from certified arborists that live, work and engage in your community. Contact one of our Davey Tree specialists for your residential, commercial, utility, or environmental needs.

Let's Find What
You're Looking For!