All signs are pointing to a vibrant season of autumn color this year, thanks to plenty of summer and early fall rain, says a Virginia Tech tree physiology expert.
“We have plenty of moisture in the soil and the trees should be in great shape for a colorful display in the beautiful state of Virginia,” says John Seiler, a forestry professor who specializes in environmental stress effects on woody plant physiology.
Seiler looks at weather patterns and the moisture in soil to predict peak autumn color. He says that rain levels can also impact the variety of color, but clear days in October are vital for a vivid display.
“Rainy weather patterns are keeping trees in Virginia healthy, which should prolong the fall color season and make leaf color more vivid,” says Seiler. “We do, however, need some clear and sunny days in October for the red leaf colors to develop well.”
So, when should leaf watchers plan to enjoy the foliage?
Seiler predicts trees in Virginia may not reach their peak foliage until the fourth week of October.
“The weekends of October 22 and 29 are likely the best bet. It looks like trick-or-treaters … will be set for a vivid display.”
Seiler specializes in environmental stress effects on woody plant physiology, including water and pollutant stresses. Seiler teaches in the College of Natural Resources and Environment at Virginia Tech.
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