~From Roots to Shoots~

One of natures most spectacular events is about to unfold in the Northeast. Autumn is the season that brings us cooler nights, shorter days and an abundance of breathtaking colors.

Chlorophyll

Warm temperatures and sunlight allow plants to produce this green pigment. In fall, the amount produced decreases & the green color begins to diminish.

Carotenoids & Flavonoids

These pigments are always present in leaves, but as the chlorophyll breaks down, they become visible. A subclass of carotenoids, xanthophylls are responsible for the yellow in autumn leaves.

Carotenoids

Beta-carotene absorbs green & blue light, reflecting red & yellow light to create the orange pigment we see. Carotenoids break down at the same time as chlorophyll but at a much slower rate.

Anthocyanins & Carotenoids

Anthocyanins synthesis begins at the start of autumn. Sugar concentrate in the leaves increases and the sunlight initiates anthocyanin production.