Leaves change when dwindling daylight slows the production of chlorophyll, uncovering yellows that have been hiding behind the greens, according to Ron Wolford, horticulture educator for the University of Illinois Extension.
Sufficient rain during the growing season creates healthy trees that can soak up the sun's energy, Wolford said. Sun-soaked days followed by crisp nights such as the region has experienced this fall allow trees to use that energy to increase the production of sugar, which amplifies the red color of the leaves.
The appearance of hues like red and purple also depends in part on whether a plant's genetics allow it to produce certain chemical compounds, as well as how acidic or alkaline its leaves are, said Ed Hedborn, manager of plant records for the Morton Arboretum in Lisle.
In the Chicago area, yellows are common, but maples also ignite the sky with reds and oranges.
When leaves change color and fall, they help trees prepare for winter. Trees, Hedborn said, are "nature's original recyclers," holding back and storing nutrients, dropping their leaves, then absorbing additional nutrients from leaves that decompose on the ground around them.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment