UK autumn foliage forecast: Stunning, long-lasting leaves in store after wet summer
Following a particularly wet summer for Britain, an extended autumn foliage display is in the cards.
According to Forestry Commission experts, a warm and dry springtime may have slowed down sugar production in trees across England — but the wet summertime has helped them to catch up.
According to Andrew Smith, director at Westonbirt Arboretum: “This spring was very dry, resulting in thirsty trees and slower sugar production. The wet summer is just what they needed and will hopefully help them turn things around to give us a superb display.”
While vibrant colors are in the offing, they may arrive slightly later than usual.
Smith said: “It’s a very tricky task predicting when autumn will be at its best. Judging by the weather so far this year we could expect a slightly later autumn, though you will enjoy it if you’re out and about mid- to late October.”
Maple trees may be the first to turn in October. However, beech and oak trees will take considerably longer, leading to a "second autumn" into November.
The only threat to an otherwise stunning season is the potential for windstorms beginning in October.
“We’re predicting October to January to be the height of windstorm season,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys said. "With late-autumn foliage predicted, any storm could bring a premature end to the display."
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