New study links leaf nutrient levels to earlier fall color in US forests
Researchers from Duke University published findings in Nature Communications explaining how leaf nutrients influence autumn timing across the United States.
Timing of seasonal leaf changes
Deciduous trees stop producing chlorophyll starting roughly in September. This process reveals other pigments as leaves turn shades of yellow and red before falling off. By mid-November, most deciduous trees are bare for the winter season.
Role of environmental conditions
Environmental factors like temperature and rainfall can alter when senescence begins in a specific location. For example, increased autumn rain allows leaves to remain on branches longer than usual. Less sunlight availability also makes photosynthesis less efficient for the tree.
Impact of nutrient composition
Specific elements within the leaf tissue regulate the timing of this natural energy conservation strategy. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are among the factors that scientists say affect the onset of color change. Understanding these balances helps improve forecasts for carbon cycle tracking.
Reported by one outlet
Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.
Reported by
1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.