As temperatures get cooler and the days become shorter, you’ll notice tree leaves turn from green to yellow, orange, red, or purple. Trees change colors in preparation for the cold months, eventually turning brown, shriveling up, and defoliating completely. Below, you’ll learn more about why leaves shift pigmentation from autumn to winter. 

Preventing Energy Waste 

Throughout winter, trees require more energy to keep leaves green. Plants rely on the sun for photosynthesis, and since there are fewer sunlight hours in the day, trees cannot get the food they need to sustain full canopies. Winters are also drier, which makes it challenging for trees to soak up and retain enough moisture to nourish leaves. Rather than expending excess energy to keep the leaves, they gradually change colors before defoliating.

Chlorophyll Production Ceases

Leaves contain chlorophyll, which is a photosynthetic pigment that gives leaves their green color during spring and summer. Chlorophyll helps plants absorb sunlight energy and convert it to food. However, plants cease making chlorophyll once daylight hours decrease. As chlorophyll breaks down, leaves gradually lose their green hues and begin to show other pigmentations.

The Pigment Process 

Once chlorophyll disappears, leaves produce other pigments, including yellow and orange carotenoids found in maples and red anthocyanin seen in sourwoods. When these pigments blend, they may produce pink or purple leaves, as exemplified by the leaves of dogwoods.

In addition to producing gorgeous color, these pigments serve practical purposes. Anthocyanins, for instance, protect leaves from the sun’s heat and getting eaten by pests. Carotenoids help trees absorb sunlight for photosynthesis and protect energy-producing cells in leaves.

Keep the trees on your lawn healthy and beautiful throughout the changing seasons with maintenance from J D Mills Expert Tree Service. They provide tree trimming, pruning, hazardous tree removal, and stump grinding services to properties throughout High Point, NC. Call (336) 431-8162 to set up a regular care schedule that includes tree pruning and root feeding. Visit the website to learn more about this fully licensed and insured tree company.