Fall Color Report Trees. Autumn. Georgia. A Reality Show Worth Watching!
Trying to predict the peak of fall color year to year is a challenge since much depends on the weather and the microclimate around each tree. Fortunately, Georgia's variety of tree species ensures you can count on a show of fall colors each year, without re-runs.
October 10, 2008
In Northwest Georgia:
Georgia Forestry Commission Rangers report only a slight change in leaf color this week. Blackgum and dogwood are starting to show some hints of red. Yellow-poplars are showing the most color; some maples and sweetgum are beginning to follow suit.
GFC Rangers say they expect the next seven days to bring more visible color changes.
In Northeast Georgia:
Georgia Forestry Commission Rangers report some scattered frost the past week, which is speeding up the change in color. The sourwoods are at “peak” and dogwoods are almost there. Maples are starting to turn now, with some especially good areas of color along roadsides. Yellow-poplars are changing rapidly now with about 1/2 color, and the walnuts and sycamores are nearing peak. Blackgums are showing deep reds and purples. The oaks and hickories are just beginning to show a change. This weekend, you’ll find most of the color in the understory and in the yellow-poplars, but there is enough color to make any excursion worthwhile.
Overall, the forest is at about 20% color. Depending on temperatures over the next week or so, peak color is estimated in 2 1/2 weeks.
For a scenic drive this weekend, check out the Russell Scenic Highway, from Helen into Hiawassee.
photo taken on Hwy 515 in Blairsville GA
Why Leaves Change Color
Native Trees Of Georgia
Weather Information
Don't Move Firewood factsheet
Web links
Black Rock Mountain State Park web cam, Mountain City GA
Brasstown Bald (requires Java) web cam, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests
Leaf Watch and Coloration of Georgia Trees - Georgia State Parks
Fall Color Hotline - USDA Forest Service
Georgia Tourism - ExploreGeorgia.org
Fall Color Pictures - Virginia Tech
Fall Colors depend on weather changes - USA Today
Photos of Fall Foliage - University of Illinois Extension
Anatomy of a Leaf - USDA Forest Service, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests
Tree Species Fact Sheets, Georgia - Dendrology at Virginia Tech
