DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - You may have already done some pumpkin picking this season. However, leaf peeping is right around the corner, despite the ongoing run of warm weather.
Did you know that during the growing season, chlorophyll gives leaves their green color by helping plants absorb sunlight for photosynthesis? As days get shorter and cooler weather arrives in autumn, trees prepare for winter by slowing down and eventually stopping chlorophyll production. The existing chlorophyll breaks down and fades away.
Weather / Storm Coverage
Weather | Radar | Weather-Blog | SendIt
As the green leaf color disappears, other pigments that were present but masked, such as carotenoids (orange and yellow pigments) and anthocyanins (red and purple pigments), become visible. Carotenoids are present all the time, but their colors are hidden by the green chlorophyll. When chlorophyll degrades, its vibrant hues show through.
Temperature, sunlight, and moisture also affect pigment production and breakdown.
Regardless of your activity this weekend, make some time for the great outdoors. The weather will be warm, but bright with comfortable humidity.
Copyright 2025. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.