Hiking in Autumn is fabulous! As the days shorten and temperatures drop, trees prepare for winter by shedding their leaves. This process, called abscission, is accompanied by a striking change in leaf colour.
During the growing season, leaves are green due to the presence of chlorophyll, a pigment that captures sunlight for photosynthesis. As daylight hours decrease, the tree’s energy production slows down. The tree begins to withdraw nutrients from the leaves, including chlorophyll.
As chlorophyll fades, other pigments become visible, revealing the underlying colours of the leaf. Carotenoids, pigments responsible for the yellow and orange hues seen in many leaves, are always present but masked by chlorophyll. Anthocyanins, pigments that produce red and purple colours, are synthesised in response to environmental factors like sugar levels and temperature.
As the tree prepares to shed its leaves, a specialised layer of cells, called the abscission layer, forms at the base of the leaf stem. This layer weakens, eventually causing the leaf to detach.
Different tree species exhibit varying leaf colours. For example, maples are known for their vibrant reds and oranges, while oaks often turn brown. Weather factors like temperature, sunlight, and soil nutrients can influence leaf colour intensity. If we are lucky enough to have a warm, sunny autumn then tress are likely to produce even more intense colours.
Autumn is a great time for hiking, the temperature isn’t too hot and there is so much to see. We have a couple of days still free if you wanted to join us on an Event.
Check out one of our great wellness events here: The Peak District – Wellbeing Walks – Out the office into nature
Taking event bookings now.
The Wellbeing Walks Team
