defoliated

Defoliated refers to the state of having lost leaves. This condition can occur naturally due to seasonal changes, such as autumn in deciduous trees, where leaves change color and fall off. It can also be a result of external factors affecting plants.

Insects are a common cause of defoliation. Many pests feed on leaves, sometimes consuming them entirely, which can weaken or even kill the plant if the infestation is severe. Diseases can also lead to defoliation. Fungal or bacterial infections can cause leaves to wither, rot, or fall prematurely. Environmental stresses like drought, extreme temperatures, or poor soil conditions can also induce defoliation as a plant's survival mechanism to conserve resources.

Accidental or intentional removal of leaves is also described as defoliation. This can happen during harvesting processes, for example, in the cultivation of certain crops like tobacco or cotton. In some horticultural practices, gardeners might defoliate plants to encourage new growth or to improve air circulation. The term "defoliant" refers to a chemical substance that causes defoliation, often used in agriculture to aid in harvesting or in military contexts. The impact of defoliation on a plant depends on the extent of leaf loss, the plant's species, and the underlying cause.