Expect unusually vibrant colours this autumn

Forestry England has said that the higher-than-average rainfall this year, particularly in the spring, has led to a lush growth in the nation’s forests.

These leaves, now full of sugars, could result in a spectacular autumn display; however, just how vibrant the colours will be is dependent on the weather in the coming months.

Data from the Met Office shows that most regions of England had more rain than usual during winter and spring. 

While too much rain in autumn can delay colour change and cause leaves to drop early, the abundant water in spring has helped trees to grow well and produce many sugar-rich leaves. 

Above. Image: Forestry England/Crown Copyright

Andrew Smith, Forestry England Director of Westonbirt Arboretum, explained: “Trees produce sugars through photosynthesis, a process that needs plenty of water, sunlight, and carbon dioxide. This year’s abundant rainfall has helped our forest trees grow well and produce lots of leaves full of sugars. 

“However, for a truly spectacular display, we also need to have plenty of sunshine during late summer and early autumn. If September and October bring sunny weather, we should see a stunning array of colours in the nation’s forests this year.

“Leaf change is triggered by environmental cues like shorter days and cooler temperatures. Although we’ve had lots of rain this year, our seasons have been warmer. If the warm weather continues, the leaves will stay green for longer, delaying the start of autumn colour. However, if it suddenly gets cold after a warm period, the leaves could start to change colour quickly.

“For best colour, we’d ideally have sunny days in autumn and also cool nights, as these conditions accentuate leaf colour. However, extreme weather events, such as early heavy frosts or strong storms, can cause loss of leaves before they reach peak colour.

Above. Image: Forestry England/Crown Copyright

“Climate change also creates longer-term threats to our trees. Warmer temperatures can stress trees, making them more vulnerable to pests like the oak processionary moth and diseases like acute oak decline. Climate change also promotes the spread of tree diseases. Together, these impacts can result in less vibrant and shorter autumn displays. In extreme cases such as chalara ash dieback, we risk losing entire trees or treescapes along with all the other benefits that they bring for wildlife, people, and climate.”

Forestry England is working hard to ensure that autumn is colourful for future generations and is growing forests for all, using lots of different species of trees. 

They are also carefully considering where the trees come from to ensure they can thrive in the expected climate conditions of the coming decades. 

Aspen, wild cherry, hornbeam, small-leaved lime, and oak are among the trees that should bring beautiful colour to our countryside for visitors to enjoy well into the future.

Visit Forestry England's website to find your nearest forest and enjoy the beautiful autumnal colours firsthand.