Winter freezing of deciduous tree roots can result in leaf scorch the following summer. Leaf scorch is most severe on the side exposed to the contributing factor. For example, hot, dry winds cause most symptoms to appear on the side exposed to prevailing winds. However, in some cases, heat reflected from white or light-colored siding can cause scorch, especially to conifers, even on the north side of trees. In advanced cases the entire tree appears dry and scorched.
Severe scorch can result in complete defoliation because leaves dry up and fall prematurely.
Trees defoliated before midsummer often form new leaves. Those defoliated in late summer may not grow new leaves until the following spring. Winter drying of evergreens results when water lost through the needles can not be replaced by roots because the soil is frozen or dry. Symptoms usually appear first on the south or southwest side but can develop throughout the tree. Needles of affected fir trees most often turn a yellowish color but can turn red.