What is hiding inside a bud on a tree?

In winter, many trees look bare. But look closely at a branch, and you can find little brown bumps. Gently touch one with your finger. It feels hard and pointy.

Those bumps are called buds. A bud sits quietly on its branch all winter long. So what is hiding inside a bud on a tree?

First, look at the outside of the bud. It is wrapped in small hard coats, one over another. These coats are called scales, which means tough little covers for the bud.

The scales fit tight, like a snug jacket. They keep out the cold wind and the icy rain. Whatever sits inside stays safe and does not dry out. What do you think the scales are keeping safe?

When we peel the scales open, we find something green. There are tiny leaves inside, folded up very small so they fit. They are packed in tight, like a paper fan pressed shut.

These little leaves are already whole leaves. Each one has its own stem and thin lines, just like a big leaf. They are only smaller, and folded.

Some buds hide flowers instead of leaves. Inside, tiny petals are folded small and tight. Cherry trees have many flower buds like this.

All through the cold days, the tiny leaves and flowers wait inside the bud. They are ready to grow big when warm days come.

Let's remember one word: scales. Inside a bud, tiny folded leaves or flowers hide, safe under the scales.

Next time you see a bud on a branch, you will know about the tiny leaves asleep inside.