The phrase "little buds" refers to small and undeveloped parts of a plant that are just beginning to grow and will eventually become flowers or leaves. Full definition
Soon, there were little buds on the trees and eventually a wall of lush greenery. (ourwelcominghome.com)
My son was born in winter, and now spring was just beginning to blossom — little buds waving on the branches of the tree outside our window. (wendywisner.com)
Amazingly, little buds of green sprout from their branches. (automobilemag.com)