One of the most undeniable characteristics of autumn is the seasonally color-changing leaves. These leaves create a vibrant atmosphere and allow us to enjoy the astounding beauty of the autumn trees before they become bare with the chilly weather.
It is a tradition for some families to go outside on a weekend to sightsee these colorful leaves. But why exactly do these leaves change color? And why at this time of the year?
What Gives Leaves Color?
Chlorophyll can be found in almost all photosynthetic organisms, such as plants or algae. This pigment gives plants their signature green color we see during most of the year. As temperatures drop and daylight shortens, production of chlorophyll eventually stops and the trees send an enzyme to each leaf to break down the chlorophyll pigments.
As the green color disappears from the leaves as the chlorophyll breaks down, the leaves’ other pigments start to show; they usually appear as yellow, orange or red. Every tree carries a specific combination of these pigments that give them their color: yellow leaves carry xanthophyll; orange contains carotene; red contains anthocyanin.
With the production of chlorophyll stopped, a layer of cells, known as the abscission layer, forms between the leaf and the twig carrying the leaf. Slowly and steadily, the leaf falls from the tree.
Leaf Peeping in Middleton
There are many places here at Middleton that provide the beautiful scenery of autumn leaves!
One of the easiest places to experience the beauty of our autumn leaves is Firemen’s Park. This park, spanning 4 acres, is located right next to the Middleton High School, giving students easy access to the playground, volleyball court, basketball court and multi-purpose area nearby. It also provides a great view of the different colors of Wisconsin’s autumns!
This conservancy is over 300 acres and provides beautiful walking trails! Pheasant Branch is also dedicated to providing environmental education, environmental restoration and easy access to nature for the public. Alongside the upland oak savanna and lowland wetland prairies, the conservancy is perfect for anyone who wishes to go leaf-peeping!
3. Pope Farm
Similarly to the Pheasant Branch Conservancy, this gorgeous conservancy encourages all visitors to join the natural community! With a variety of walking trails, picnic areas and public tours, Pope Farm is open to the public. One of their main missions is to restore the environment and educate people about conserving natural resources and wildlife. Come to Pope Farm Conservancy to see the awe-inspiring nature!
The aesthetic nature of our color-changing leaves will not last forever; go out and see the trees!
