It’s Week 3 of our annual fall Leaf Watch series. Here’s what the Georgia Forestry Commission says about this this week:
“The region is still a couple of weeks shy of peak period, but things are changing fast in the 3,000 feet and above elevation. Lower elevations haven’t changed much but are still providing good roadside views of sourwood, dogwood, blackgum, sweetgum, and hints of color in a few other species.
PERCENTAGE OF LEAF CHANGE:
Above 3,000’ – 20%
Below 3,000’ – 8%
WEATHER:
Cooler temperatures should lead to more vibrant displays of color and are ideal for making a perfect season for fall colors. Peak season should fall around the end of October to the first of November. Weather can impact expected peak and can either shorten or lengthen the season.
Some of the lower elevations are seeing leaf drop due to dry conditions.
This has primarily only been in sweetgum, poplar, and sycamore. There hasn’t been much impact on the mountains as of yet. Dry conditions can sometimes create duller colorations, like browns, or cause trees to drop leaves to conserve moisture.
OUTINGS:
Any of the overlooks above 3000 feet will provide some fair color change this weekend. Richard B. Russell Scenic Parkway and Black Rock Mountain State Park have overlooks above 3000 feet. Some wildflowers like late purple aster, purple-stem aster, and frost aster are providing great roadside and meadow views.”