Both the red oak and pin oak have red leaves in autumn
While we can’ t do anything about the changing seasons, we can alter the way we look at them. Most people feel a little sad that summer has passed but now is the time to appreciate one of the greatest performances staged by nature – completely free of charge.
Plants adopt a very sensible habit: they slow down and stop working so hard when daylight hours reduce and temperatures fall. They know their winter rest period is approaching and begin to draw on food supplies they have been storing since spring. Because of low winter light, plants are unable to manufacture sustenance via photosynthesis.
But while we humans add on a few layers of warm clothing, plants do the opposite. They cast off their seasonal mantles. This means we are privy to some
Amelanchier trees display vibrant autumn hues
Enjoy the Show
By Caroline Knight
wondrous colours, improving in intensity as October progresses. The leaf fireworks have been there all along, covered beneath green chlorophyll. Leaves are a type of food-processing factory and as they wind down, they shed layers.
First to go is the outer chlorophyll and as it fades, we can see yellow, orange and red anthocyanin. Don’ t miss it!
Star performers Some of the best autumn colour comes from Japanese maples. In fact, most of the Acer family excel at this time of year, including the native Acer campestre, which gives out a bright golden glow. Others are red, orange and scarlet, delivered with great style.
The Juneberries, or Amelanchiers, are also experts at
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