KIRTLAND, Ohio — One look and you know — one season is leaving as another falls into place. So, to guide us through this technicolor production is the apply named Tom Arbour, the director of collections at Holden Arboretum.
First, the yellows, oranges, and reds were already there, but they could be seen because of the green chlorophyll used to produce nutrients for the trees. Now, the "green" is breaking down as the trees prepare for cold months ahead.
"So, they're just completely shutting down," Arbour explained. "And by losing those leaves, that helps them conserve their water over the winter."
As the days get shorter, that is the signal for the annual show to begin.
"These magical conditions of how much rain we get, how much sun, all can affect when and how intense that peak color season will be," Arbour said.
And for some, that is the fun of fall: Waiting for those perfect conditions.
"When it's peak season, we're looking for color across the landscape, and almost all green will be gone," Arbour stated. "But you'll still have a lot of leaves on the trees. That's the magic time."
A kaleidoscope of color is about to show off its brilliance.
"Sometimes, the trees are producing more sugars at the end of the year," Arbour said, "and so those reds will get darker."
An artist’s palette of perfection draws many to Holden Arboretum. It's one of their busiest seasons.
"We have all kinds of amazing things that you can come out and experience," Arbour told us. "We have our leaf trail, and we have our fall fest, lots of different activities and events. So, come out; enjoy the fall foliage."
The Holden Arboretum Fall Forest Fest starts Saturday and runs until Oct. 29, if you want to catch the changing colors.
