Falling Leaves

As a pagan I believe it's important to understand your environment in order to find a deep connection with the earth. It's especially important to understand your local environment as far as weather patterns, temperature norms and native plants and animals. It's also important to be aware of major changes in your region that may have impacted your local environment.

That being said, Autumn is upon us here in the Northern Hemisphere! Our nights will now be longer than our days, and thus the leaves will begin to change colour. As the days grow shorter, the trees don't have enough light and energy to photosynthesize, therefore the chlorophyll that made the leaves green is no longer present. The lack of chlorophyll allows the true colours of the leaves to come through. All year there were trace amounts of yellow, orange or red in the leaves, and without chlorophyll, these colours are able to intensify.

There are ways to of knowing just when you can expect the fall colour show in your region. Typically the best way to know is to be observant. There shouldn't be much difference year to year in when each tree changes colour. Pay close attention this year, and even keep a log of it so that you can become familiar with the trees in your environment. Next year you can be ready with the camera, or even the paint brush!

Another way to predict the brightness of your trees is to pay attention to the weather. The brightest colours are often produced when the trees get sunny days with the high above 15°C followed by cool nights with a low below 10°C. This combined with enough rain to keep the trees from withdrawing water from the leaves early will mean great fall colours. If there is drought, the trees may take water from their leaves early, which will cause the leaves to appear dull.

Research your local trees. There are online resourses such as wikipedia and The Tree Guide that can teach you what to expect. When you begin to know your environment, you will notice the subtle beauty around you in nature. Being in tune with your environment doesn't come naturally to all people, so don't be discouraged! You can get to know the earth slowly and carefully, and when you do, you can reap the beautfiul rewards!

For more information on tracking the fall colours in your region, visit The Weather Network Fall Colours Index (for Canada), or for the US The Weather Channel has a video guide for the fall foliage forecast!

>>Originally Posted on TWC