MINNEAPOLIS — Schools are back in session and fall activities are in full swing. But most Minnesota trees have yet to turn their fall colors.
“I love it. I just moved here from Las Vegas, so it’s a huge change, but I’m obsessed with it,” said Jessica Shearin.
While it’s not quite sweater weather yet, new Minnesotans, like Shearin, are already feeling the fall anticipation building.
“Someone told me it looks really nice when the leaves change color, so I’m ready for that,” she said.
There aren’t any bright reds and vibrant yellows to be found in downtown Minneapolis right now, but tree experts like Tyler Hesseltine, arborist and general manager of Davey Tree Company, say this year it will be worth the wait.
“The recipe we have prepared so far, which is a good growing season and clear, sunny days in September and October, means we will have a very nice autumn,” he said.
A good show, thanks to a chemical breakdown in the leaves that begins during the cooler, darker season. This year, depending on the tree species, there are the right ingredients to make the colors burst.
“We’ve had plenty of rain this season and the forecast is dry and sunny,” Hesseltine said. “So I expect we’re going to see some really exceptional sugar maples this season.”
Hesseltine says to keep an eye on the maples and oaks, but that the poplars may be less visible this year.
“The vibrancy and the fullness of the colours on the main byways will be really beautiful,” he said.
Discover here where and when you can see the most beautiful autumn colours.
