Autumn in Nature: Why Leaves Change Colour

The autumn landscape is one of nature's most beautiful shows. We explain why leaves change colour and when is the best time to head outdoors.

Why leaves change colour

Through the summer, leaves are mainly full of green chlorophyll. In autumn, the tree stops producing chlorophyll, revealing other pigments – yellows and oranges that were hidden all along.

Where the red colour comes from

Red shades come from new pigments (anthocyanins), which the tree produces to protect its leaves from the strong autumn sun before finally shedding them.

When to go looking for autumn colours

• Deciduous forests are usually at their most colourful in the second half of October
• The best light is early morning or late afternoon
• After rain, the colours stand out even more thanks to the moisture

Autumn is the ideal time for slower walks – nature lights up one last time before winter.