BR53020 10Inch Maple Tree, Autumn

Photosynthesis is the process in which leaves turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose, the plant’s food. The chemical compound chlorophyll makes photosynthesis happen, allowing maple trees (and all other plants) to grow during the spring and summer. It’s also what makes leaves look green. The shortening days and colder nights trigger the trees to prepare for winter. Photosynthesis shuts down, and chlorophyll fades from the leaves, allowing other colors to emerge. Some of those reds, yellows, and oranges have been there all along, masked by chlorophyll. The most vibrant fall foliage occurs when the end of summer is dry, and the Autumn days are sunny and nights are cool but above freezing.