CHARLOTTE — The hot and dry summer has put a lot of stress on trees across the Charlotte area, and experts say it could lead to a shorter and less vibrant fall color season in the Carolinas.
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The drought and prolonged heat have forced trees to conserve water and nutrients, which can affect how and when leaves change color.
Because of those stressful conditions, trees may begin changing color earlier than usual, drop their leaves sooner, and produce less vibrant fall foliage this year.
“So, what we typically see when we have drought effects with trees is either the trees will change color early, and then also the colors won’t be as vibrant as they are when we have good moisture during the summertime,” said Laurie Reid, Charlotte City arborist. “So that’s typically what we see, and also it’ll be a little bit shorter as well.”
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