Kassel (dpa / lhe) – Because of the persistent drought, many deciduous trees in Hesse’s forests shed their leaves in late summer. As reported by the state agency Hessenforst on Thursday in Kassel, the lack of precipitation is stress for the plants. Short thunderstorms would not be enough for the trees. Trees therefore close the stomata in their leaves when it is particularly hot. Ultimately, they would shed the foliage to conserve resources, the experts explained.
Hessenforst sees the need to adapt the forest to climate change and its consequences. For example, more trees could be planted that withstand drought better. These included oaks, maples and ash trees.
