Leaf It to the Trees to Bring Us Something Brilliant

With the feeling of fall in the air, thoughts of cooler evenings, campfires and cider, we notice the leaves are beginning to change color.  What better way to enjoy that feeling of fall, than to take a day trip to enjoy the beautiful hues of brilliant reds, fiery orange and golden glowing yellow.  In Pennsylvania we have many spots that make for some spectacular leaf peeping sites.  This link list some of the best places to check out the spectacular transition of the trees.

https://www.visitpa.com/article/when-and-where-view-best-fall-foliage-pa

Why do the leaves change color?

In the spring and summer the leaves are producing the food source for the trees. The chlorophyll which is part of this process is what gives the leaves their green color.   There are other pigments which give the trees the yellow and orange colors but they are hidden by the chlorophyll until the fall.  When the days get shorter and the temperature starts to get cooler the trees stop the food production and the chlorophyll breaks down.  This is when the yellow and orange pigments get their chance to shine.

If you have wondered why some years are better than others?  Weather definitely affects the color transition, as does the amount of water, temperature and sunlight. If you would like to learn more about this process click on the link below.

https://allthatsinteresting.com/why-leaves-change-color

Happy Leaf Peeping!