Already, there is a little color in the Smokies! Although it is very early in the fall color season, there are spots of color both high and low. There are the early changers like dogwood, blackgum, and sourwood have begun to show some burgundy reds against a green backdrop. At the higher elevations, witch hobble is offering some nice hues. Experts predict visitors to the mountains can look forward to a vibrant display of color this autumn.
This is due in part to the above-average temperatures that were reached this summer. Rainfall has been slightly less than average during the spring and summer. These are two factors that experts take into consideration when trying to predict the timing and quality of fall leaf color change in the mountains.
It is believed that the formation of ample yellow, orange and red pigments in the leaves seems to correlate with dry weather throughout the year and that the drier the climate, the more brilliant the fall leaves tend to be.
Although peak fall colors typically occur during the third week of October, this may be extended this year, possibly as late as mid-November, due to the warmer temperatures.
The earliest noticeable changes to take place are the sourwoods and dogwoods, which both turn red, as well as the tulip poplars. Then it is the more colorful maples, with hues of red, orange and yellow, and birches, which turn yellow which and will signify the peak period. Finally, the oaks turn orange and red to round out the later color change in the season.