Fall Color Alert––

Next Week Is Prime Time For Leaf Peeping

By Dottie Evans

Travelers interested in planning a getaway during the state’s peak fall foliage season can schedule a trip the week of October 13–20, according to Connecticut State Forester Donald Smith, Jr.

But if that’s too short notice –– not to worry.

“Connecticut is unique in that fall foliage lasts through November,” Mr Smith added, “because there is a vast mix of tree and shrub species that provide a full color palette that is world renowned.”

The sugar maples and red maples put on the biggest and earliest show with their flame red and orange leaves. Norway maple leaves turn a pure golden yellow. The native sumac turns brilliant scarlet, and the oaks, whose leaves turn a deep russet brown, are among the last to drop their foliage.

For those who like to know day-to-day what is happening with the progression of the fall color, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will regularly update its website at www.dep.state.ct.us/updates/foliage/foliage.htm.

In addition, people can log onto www.ctbound.org to vote for their favorite fall foliage locations throughout Connecticut, and for up-to-date fall color reports called in by other travelers.

According to Mr Smith, the progression of leaf color change is favored by cool (but not freezing) nights, and bright, sunny days. Cool evenings retard the transport of sugars from the leaves downward into the trees. When sugars are trapped in the leaf, better colors are the result.