What trees turn red in the fall? If you plan to spruce up your living landscape with dazzling hues, that’s a splendid question to ask. We all feel captivated by that magical time of year when Mother Nature dons her showstopping crimson garb.
As the go-to professional tree service in Safety Harbor, our team at Ken’s Tree Service has the scoop on all things foliage-related. Keep reading as we break down the list of specimens that paint the landscape red each autumn.
The Catalyst for Color Change
What triggers this spectacular transformation in the first place? As the days shorten in autumn, trees respond by reabsorbing nutrients from their leaves and halting the production of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the verdant summer hues.
This leaves room for other pigments to take center stage. Carotenoids, responsible for yellow and orange colors, and anthocyanins, which produce shades of red and purple, now reveal themselves in all their blazing glory.
Showstoppers of the Season
Are you ready to discover what trees turn red in the fall? Let’s then dive into the star performers that grace our landscapes with spectacular crimsons when the days grow cold.
Red Maple
If you want deep red foliage with an enchanting visual impact, this maple tree variety is a stellar option. Many gardeners also love its rapid growth and ability to adapt to diverse soil types.
Black Cherry
The black cherry is a real treat, with fall leaves transforming into fiery hues that compete with the sunset. Care for this large tree properly, and it will also reward you with clusters of fruit that make delicious jams and jellies.
Sweetgum
Sweetgums sport star-shaped leaves that create an enchanting mosaic. They also release an intoxicating scent that permeates the air, enhancing the sensory pleasure of your autumnal outdoor experience.
Black Tupelo
A marvel of nature, black tupelo specimens boast a kaleidoscope of leaf colors that range from brilliant reds to purples. They have a distinct bark, reminiscent of tough alligator hide, that lends a unique textural contrast to any garden landscape.
Dogwood
Regarded as a staple in southern landscapes, dogwoods display beautiful reds and maroons just before the winter chill sets in. Many also love their delicate, star-like blossoms in spring, solidifying their place as a four-season garden wonder.
Is Your Desired Fall Color Possible in the Sunshine State?
Our warmer region can still bring about red foliage, though it often arrives later than our northern counterparts. Selecting appropriate varieties will mean the difference between a bland landscape and a riotous display of colors. In general, the farther north you reside in the state, the more brilliant the autumn display.
Consult a Tree Expert
At Ken’s Tree Service, we know what trees turn red in the fall and, more importantly, which ones will thrive in your specific environment. Rely on our arborists to guide your decisions, ensuring your yard stays vibrant season after season. Call (727) 934-5804 today or further explore our blog to learn about essential nutrients for trees.