Do Leaves Change Just From Cooler Air?
• Cooler air is a factor, but decreasing daylight hours primarily trigger leaf color changes by stopping chlorophyll production.
• Weather conditions like sunny days and cool nights intensify fall colors, while soil conditions also play a significant role.
• The variety of fall colors depends on the tree species and the presence of carotenoids (yellow/orange) and anthocyanins (red/purple).
Cooler air not the only reason
As autumn approaches, nature displays changing leaves. Many believe cooler air is the only trigger, but it is more complex. Cooler air plays a role, but is only part of the reason.
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