Some trees, such as spruces, firs, and pine trees, remain green all fall and winter. But many other trees will turn different shades of red, orange, and yellow. Here in Missouri, you can find a variety of trees whose leaves change colors at slightly different times, and some are more colorful than others. Today, Nixa Lawn Service identifies which trees and leaves produce the most vivid colors, and we explain why this change occurs. If you haven’t been able to get outside much, there’s still some time to enjoy the fall color season!
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Why Do Leaves Change Colors?
There are many factors that cause leaves to change colors. Shorter daylight hours and cooler temperatures in the fall are a couple of these factors, along with the breakdown of chlorophyll in the leaves. Most leaves contain chlorophyll, a green compound that is responsible for the photosynthesis process. Chlorophyll helps turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into sugars that go to the branches in the roots and feed the tree.
As the days become shorter, less sunlight hits the leaves, and the tree makes less chlorophyll. Then the green color fades and the yellow and orange pigments, which were always there, become visible.
Also, when daylight hours shorten, the veins that bring nutrients to the leaf start to close off. As this happens, sugars get trapped in the leaf. The sugars react with other chemicals to form red pigments. The leaves begin to fall soon after they change color. When they fall to the ground, trust Nixa Lawn Service to meet your autumn lawn care needs.
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Peak Fall Color in Missouri
So, which trees produce the most vivid colors? And when, exactly, do their leaves turn? Sassafras, sumac, and Virginia creeper are some of the first to display their red colors (mid-September), followed by dogwood and black gum.
Fall color in Missouri usually reaches its peak around mid-October, but it can last into mid-November. During this time, the yellows found in hickories will shine through. Later on, you can see oaks that have gold, bronze, and burgundy colors. Next, ashes produce a variety of colors and sugar maples turn orange. Whether you’re walking along a river or driving through your neighborhood, you’ll see many of these trees that are full of splendor and beauty.
Nixa Lawn Service Is Your Lawn Care Provider
Raking and bagging leaves can be a lot of work, especially if you have trees in the front and backyard. Let our professionals do the job. We have the tools to clear your lawn in no time. For more information or to schedule our leaf removal services, call Nixa Lawn Service at (417) 724-0318 today. You can also contact us online.
