Autumn

Changing Colours

During autumn deciduous trees shed their leaves to conserve energy and water in preparation for winter. As the days shorten, chlorophyll production ceases, resulting in the loss of green pigmentation in the leaves. This reveals yellow and orange pigments that are already present. Certain trees create anthocyanins, which produce red and purple hues. Wildflowers die off turning the meadows brown. This change is a natural survival mechanism activated by decreasing temperatures and shorter daylight hours.