The colors that surround us up here in New England are ever-inspiring and absolutely gorgeous. Changing leaves signify a transition into the cooler temperatures of fall and winter, complete with warm lattes, cozy sweaters and some great riding boots.
These various shades of orange, red and yellow are awe-inspiring to say the least. Just when temperatures begin to drop, Mother Nature treats us to a plethora of colors that are delightfully warm. No wonder we feel so inspired!
But we wondered… why exactly does this change occur? There’s a whole astounding process behind why our trees change color, and we set out to learn just what makes nature perform the way she does as autumn settles in.
As creatures fed by light and air, plants are highly affected by fall’s environmental changes; cool temperatures and shorter amounts of daylight represent a large change in the elements that keep 
plants in their natural state. As creatures of light, plants also create high amounts of pigment in comparison to other living things, creating their green color.
Without delving too deeply into the lengthy scientific details, leaves change color in the fall due to a change in the amount of pigment in their cells to prepare for their descent from the trees. Between summer and fall, leaves are gradually losing chlorophyll (the green pigment) as they grow. By the time fall comes around, much of that green pigment is lost, revealing yellow pigments or creating red ones (depending on the tree).
The entirety of this process serves to reabsorb nitrogen back into the tree, making it possible for leaves to grow back in the spring. The whole progression takes place throughout our four seasons, making for the seasonal cues and changes us New Englanders so appreciate!
Looking for a fix of autumn leaves? Check out this list of awesome places for fall travel.
On the same vein, this super cool map, called the Fall Foliage Predictor, is the perfect tool for exploring new areas to see this beautiful process in action!
Where’s your favorite leaf-peeping location? We’d love to see pictures!
Much of this info is loosely based on the Harvard Forestry explanation.
