Menu

Our Reviews
Gretta Michaels
google

This is the second time using Driscoll, and we are pleased with the service. Michael is knowledgeable and punctual. We had eight trees trimmed, and they left no traces of the work in our yard. Polite workers. Reasonably priced as well. Highly recommend.

Ryan Hunt
google

Driscoll Tree Service and its team are professional, friendly, and excellent at tree removal. Their prices are the best. We had them remove a completely dead tree and a super large branch. For both experiences, they came out fast and did an Incredible job. Highly recommend.

Schedule

Tree Removal Services Today

Get Appointment
sideimage

Why Leaves Change Color in the Fall

As fall nears, property owners need to understand why leaves change color. Chlorophyll, a green pigment found in algae, plants, and cyanobacteria, plays an essential role in photosynthesis, allowing plants to absorb energy from light. However, temperatures in the fall break down chlorophyll, causing color changes in foliage. At the Driscoll Tree Service, we have seasoned arborists ready to help you understand why various colors characterize fall.

secondary

The Role of Chlorophyll

secondary

Chlorophyll, or the “green pigment,” is the lifeblood of plants. It causes the green coloration of leaves throughout the spring and summer months. The primary function of this green pigment is to capture light energy and convert it into chemical energy through photosynthesis, enabling plants to produce their food. During this process, carbon dioxide and water are transformed into glucose and oxygen, benefiting the plant and the environment.

The Transition to Fall

As summer ends and temperatures change in the fall, the chlorophyll in the leaves breaks down. Several factors, including decreasing daylight hours and cooler temperatures, contribute to this breakdown. These environmental cues trigger a series of biological processes within the plant, leading to the gradual disintegration of chlorophyll molecules. If you don’t notice any changes in foliage colors in the fall, consult a dependable tree care company to inspect, detect, and diagnose the problem.

The Four Main Leaf Colors in Fall

The transformation of leaves from vibrant green to a rich tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues is a spectacle of nature. Let’s explore the science behind each of these distinct fall colors:

  • Green

Green is the default color of most leaves during the growing season, mainly because of the dominance of chlorophyll. As long as chlorophyll is active, it masks other pigments in the leaves, resulting in a familiar green appearance. However, as the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, chlorophyll production decreases, allowing other pigments to shine through. As mentioned, it is normal to notice color changes in foliage but consult a tree service expert if your tree remains green in the fall.

  • Red

The vibrant red hues seen on autumn leaves result from anthocyanin pigments. Anthocyanins are produced in response to various environmental factors, including sunlight and temperature fluctuations. When the days become shorter and cooler in the fall, anthocyanin production increases. These pigments cause the brilliant crimson and scarlet colors in trees like maple and dogwood. If your trees have red leaves in the summer, hire a tree care company to determine the cause and recommend a viable solution.

  • Orange

Orange leaves owe their shade to a combination of anthocyanin and carotenoid pigments. Carotenoids are present in the leaf throughout the year but become more apparent as the chlorophyll fades. Carotenoids produce orange and yellow colors, and their presence is particularly pronounced in the leaves of deciduous trees like oak and hickory. However, orange hues in other seasons besides fall can show an underlying problem, prompting an inspection by certified arborists.

  • Yellow

Yellow leaves are primarily the result of carotenoid pigments. Carotenoids are always present in leaves, but the green chlorophyll masks them during the growing season. As chlorophyll breaks down in the fall, the yellow shade becomes more pronounced, leading to the brilliant gold and yellow shades in trees such as birch and aspen. If trees in your yard have yellow leaves before the fall, consult a reliable tree service expert to diagnose the problem. The last thing you want is severe damage or infection, causing premature tree removal.

The phenomenon of leaves changing color in the fall is a reminder of the intricate processes at play in the natural world. Chlorophyll’s role in photosynthesis is fundamental to the life of plants, but as the seasons transition, the breakdown of chlorophyll unveils a brilliant display of red, orange, and yellow pigments. Contact us at the Driscoll Tree Service and learn more about your trees from the experts. We offer various services, including pruning, trimming, and tree removal, at competitive rates.

Other News

blog1
Dec 20,2023
8 Symptoms of an Unhealthy Tree

8 Symptoms of an Unhealthy Tree Trees are valuable to our homes and environment, providing oxygen, shade, and aesthetic appeal. However, trees can suffer from various health issues like other living organisms, prompting the expertise of a professional tree care…

Read More
blog1
Aug 04,2024
Tree Removals for Pool Construction 

Tree Removals for Pool Construction  Installing a pool in your backyard is an exciting project, especially when you have countless hours of relaxation, fun, and exercise to look forward to. However, the journey from planning to the first swim often…

Read More
blog1
Aug 23,2023
4 Tree Pests to Look Out for this Fall

4 Tree Pests to Look Out for this Fall As the leaves change color and a crisp breeze fills the air, fall shifts the natural world. However, not just the season’s beauty capture our attention. With the changing weather, certain…

Read More
blog1
Dec 05,2024
How to Support Tree Limbs

How to Support Tree Limbs Trees are majestic entities that offer many benefits, from shade and air quality to providing a habitat for wildlife. However, mature trees can become heavy or grow with weak attachments, leading to structural issues and…

Read More
blog1
Mar 01,2024
4 Ways Tree Trimming Can Benefit Your Business 

4 Ways Tree Trimming Can Benefit Your Business  Trees are majestic beings that offer many benefits, from visual appeal to clean air. As a business owner, you can benefit from trees, including curb aesthetics and property value. However, regular care…

Read More
blog1
Mar 29,2023
Factors That Affect Tree Removal Cost

Factors That Affect Tree Removal Cost Trees are valuable additions to any landscape, but sometimes you must remove them. Whether it’s a dying, dead, or potential hazards tree, you should immediately hire a professional tree care company to address the…

Read More
blog1
Sep 19,2024
Fall Lawn and Landscape Care Tips

Fall Lawn and Landscape Care Tips As the vibrant colors of summer fade and fall begin to take over, it's essential to focus on lawn and landscape care. Fall is crucial for yard care as you prepare for the colder…

Read More
blog1
Jan 03,2024
Ideal Evergreen Trees to Plant in Your Landscape

Ideal Evergreen Trees to Plant in Your Landscape Evergreen trees are a cherished addition to any landscape, providing year-round beauty and many practical benefits. While deciduous trees may shed their leaves in the fall, evergreens maintain their lush foliage throughout…

Read More
blog1
Nov 22,2022
Stump Grinding Vs. Stump Removal

Stump Grinding Vs. Stump Removal If you recently cut down a tree in your backyard, there’s a chance you need to get rid of the eyesore left behind. While ignoring the stump or waiting for the natural decomposition process are…

Read More
blog1
Aug 21,2024
Can a Tree Grow Back from a Stump?

Can a Tree Grow Back from a Stump? When a tree is cut down, many assume that’s the end of its life. However, nature has a remarkable way of surprising us. Under the right conditions, a tree can grow back,…

Read More