TIFS On the Road: It's Fall, ya'll! Get ready for the annual celebration of Mother Nature's color show

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As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the vibrant transformation of leaves marks the arrival of autumn.

But what causes this spectacular change in color in western Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma? And when is the peak time to view the spectacular colors of Fall in the region?

Most of use should have learned the answer to the first question in our high school science class, but if you;re like me you either probably weren't paying attention or you have forgotten by now.

Throughout the growing season, leaves are green due to the presence of chlorophyll, a pigment essential for photosynthesis. Chlorophyll absorbs sunlight, converting it into energy for the tree. However, as autumn approaches, the production of chlorophyll slows down and eventually stops due to reduced daylight and cooler temperatures.

With the decline of chlorophyll, other pigments in the leaves become visible. Carotenoids, which are always present in the leaf, reveal yellow and orange hues. These pigments were masked by the dominant green of chlorophyll during the summer.

In some trees, such as maples and oaks, the breakdown of sugars trapped in the leaves produces anthocyanins, which result in red and purple colors. This chemical change is influenced by the weather; sunny days and cool nights enhance the production of anthocyanins, leading to more vivid reds.

The intensity and duration of fall colors can vary based on several factors, including temperature, light, and water supply. Ideal conditions for the most brilliant colors include a series of warm, sunny days followed by cool, but not freezing, nights.

As the season progresses, trees begin to form a protective layer between the leaves and the branches, eventually causing the leaves to fall. This process, known as abscission, helps the tree conserve water and energy during the winter months.

The peak time to view autumn leaf changes in Arkansas and Oklahoma typically falls in mid to late October, but it can vary slightly depending on the specific region and weather conditions.

Arkansas

• Ozarks: The peak color usually occurs in the third week of October.

• Northwest Arkansas: Expect peak colors around the fourth week of October.

• Ouachita Mountains: The best time to see fall foliage is typically the first week of November.

• Central and Western Arkansas: Peak colors are generally seen in late October to early November.

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Oklahoma

• Eastern Oklahoma: The peak foliage season is usually around mid to late October.

• Western Oklahoma: Colors tend to peak a bit later, often in late October to early November.

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These timeframes can shift slightly each year based on local weather patterns, so it’s always a good idea to check current foliage reports for the most accurate timing.

The annual display of fall foliage is not just a visual treat but also a fascinating example of nature’s adaptability and preparation for the changing seasons.