One of the biggest signs of fall is when leaves start changing color and falling from the trees. But why does this happen and can the red, orange, and yellow hues tell us anything about the trees they're falling from? 

In the summer, most of the leaves we see on trees are green. That's because leaves contain a high amount of pigment called chlorophyll, which is green. The chlorophyll in the leaves captures the sun's energy and the leaves use this energy to make nutrients. The leaves also have other pigments such as carotenoids (yellows, oranges, and purples/browns) and anthocyanins (reds). We don’t notice those in the summer because the chlorophyll is so abundant that it masks the other pigments. As the weather changes and the days get shorter, the leaves prepare for winter and stop producing chlorophyll. As the green from the chlorophyll fades, the other pigments take their turn on stage.

Each leaf has it's own unique chemical makeup which is why different types of trees have different autumn shades. I put together a fall leaf ID sheet/scavenger hunt (click here or check it out below). I hope it helps you and your family get outside and identify some fall leaves! Interested in learning more about why leaves change color in the fall? Check out the articles and videos linked below!