In my post just about a year ago, I explored exactly why leaves change color in fall (less sunlight diminishing photosynthesis reduces their ability to make chlorophyll, which keeps leaves green), and the reason different leaves change into different shades (due to varying pigments within their individual structures), but I didn't delve deeply into the role weather plays in the annual metamorphosis of the leaves.
The amount of precipitation accumulated throughout the entire year determines when leaves turn, and how long their color will last. Too much rain and/or snow or a late spring could push the color change back by a week--or longer, while severe drought may cause the leaves to drop early, especially on weaker or younger trees. I've noticed this around my town. We had a very dry summer in the Northeast, so the changing leaves aren't able to reach peak color before dropping off.
Another issue: temperature. For the best foliage, the fall season has to be moderately cold. If it’s too warm--like it's been here lately--the colors won’t be as bright, but will last longer. Too cold and the leaves may turn straight to brown. Frost kills.
Perhaps the most frustrating thing about autumn leaves is that we can't control what happens. Ironically, its that lack of human intervention in the process that produces the magical moments we cherish. You know the feeling of stepping out on a crisp fall morning and looking around you--marveling at the colorful patterns of gold and yellow, orange and red. Nature's kaleidoscope. Enjoy the fleeting fantasy! In a few weeks you'll be piling a plethora of brown remnants into leaf bags and hauling them to the curb.
No comments:
Post a Comment