2015's Fall Colors

[casandbliz]

Any thoughts on what this winter's snowstorms will do to New England's foliage? Earlier than normal, or later, or will it have no bearing on it?? Just curious, because we are doing our cruise in late September, 2015.

[Bonnie J.]

The snows there now will have no effect on foliage. Temperature does effect when leaves will start changing color. They start when the temperatures get to and below freezing. This is usually in September into October. At the moment there are no leaves on the trees. They come back in April.

Edited February 19, 2015 by Bonnie J.

[maryann ns]

Well the soil will be good and wet in places this spring which is good for the trees.

 

Research shows that hours of daylight have a big effect on the when the leaves change along with temperauture, health of trees, soil moisture, etc.

 

http://www.usna.usda.gov/PhotoGallery/FallFoliage/ScienceFallColor.html

 

http://www.na.fs.fed.us/fhp/pubs/leaves/leaves.shtm

 

In Nova Scotia generally leaves are just starting to change in late September. However the red maples are among the early turners so you should have a good chance of seeing them.

[sail7seas]

Spring/Summer temperatures and amount of water have the biggest bearing on how vibrant the colors and the timing of peak color. The trees like Warm/hot days and cool evenings. They don't always get what they want. :D

Edited February 19, 2015 by sail7seas