A fall message from MLF Executive Director, Deb Pella Keen
What a warm September it has been! While fall colours are progressing well, it has been interesting to see the difference in timing amongst the regions and specific trees. For example, this particular roadside red maple growing near Huntsville Ontario was in full fall colour on September 4!
The main environmental factors affecting fall foliage colour are day length and temperature. How each tree expresses colour is also dependent on its species, and growing conditions such as soil moisture.
If you are interested in checking out the changing colours this fall, check local “colour reports” (see links below) that are regularly updated throughout the fall period. You can use these reports to plan a fall drive to enjoy the best of the colours. Most major cities in Canada have viewing opportunities within an hour drive. Some landscapes may be hues of yellow while others may enjoy the full spectrum of yellows, orange and reds. Urban forests also provide excellent opportunities in their valley lands, parks and roadside trees.
- todoontario.com/ontario-fall-colours-progression-report
- Ontario Parks Fall Colour Map: www.ontarioparks.com/fallcolour
At Maple Leaves Forever we encourage you to be on the lookout for rows of heritage native maple trees throughout Southern Ontario. If you should find some, we ask that you share your findings with us – provide your pictures and their location to info@mapleleavesforever.ca!
As promised, I’ve posted a report on my informative tour of nurseries on route to Newfoundland this past June. Click here to read all about it!
The very best of the fall season to you!
Deb Pella Keen
On behalf of the MLF Team
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