Fall leaves in Colorado predicted to be less colorful this year

DENVER ( KDVR ) — The fall leaves in 2023 were extra vibrant due to the rain . However, the upcoming foliage won’t be as colorful, according to a local tree company.

Last year was one of the wettest years in Colorado, according to the Pinpoint Weather team. The rain affected the leaves’ colors as the extra moisture caused more growth.

While last year’s leaves popped with color, this year’s leaves aren’t expected to be as vibrant.

Why 2024 fall leaves won’t be as colorful

The leaves won’t be as colorful this year because of the prolonged warm weather, according to Jay Judd with Davey Tree Expert Company .

The temperature affects the leaves because of something known as chlorophyll production, which gives leaves their green color from photosynthesis . When the weather cools in the fall, chlorophyll production in leaves slows down and eventually stops, leading to fall color changes.

Judd said that because of the expected warmer weather for the fall, the leaves will likely be more muted, and the colorful leaves will be around for less time.

“If warmer weather sticks around longer, chlorophyll keeps being produced, delaying the appearance of the yellow, orange, red, and purple colors, so the leaves stay green for longer,” said Judd.

The warm weather will eventually cool down, but it could be too late for leaf-peeping season.

“Once the heat breaks, the leaves will change color but will likely turn to brown and drop sooner due to the stress of the prolonged warmth and possible drought-like conditions,” said Judd.

The fall colors won’t be like last year, but they won’t be nonexistent either.

The warm weather will also affect the timing of the leaves and when they change color. Stay up-to-date on the color forecast to see when the leaves are changing throughout the state.

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