After an Arctic Storm: Fallen Mock Pear Leaves
The temperatures plummeted during a recent Arctic storm (a.k.a. "extreme temperature fluctuation," or about a 60F+ sudden drop). It happened at a time when deciduous and coniferous trees had not yet "hardened off" for the cold wintertime temperatures.
When such an extreme weather event occurs in Colorado, as it did both in October 2019 and again in late October 2020, these leaves have an unusual, colorful "freeze-dried" appearance. Some leaves actually turn black. Trees can be badly-damaged or die from such events, with south facing trunks splitting open from ice expansion within the trees.
Also, conifers' needles may "blow out" when the internal ice accumulates and bursts the needles open. The needles then have a bleached appearance. This color change usually happens about 10 days after the extreme event.
It's difficult to witness and experience the loss of many trees and bushes at once. Those plants that survive may continue to struggle, never recovering fully.
After an Arctic Storm: Fallen Mock Pear Leaves
The temperatures plummeted during a recent Arctic storm (a.k.a. "extreme temperature fluctuation," or about a 60F+ sudden drop). It happened at a time when deciduous and coniferous trees had not yet "hardened off" for the cold wintertime temperatures.
When such an extreme weather event occurs in Colorado, as it did both in October 2019 and again in late October 2020, these leaves have an unusual, colorful "freeze-dried" appearance. Some leaves actually turn black. Trees can be badly-damaged or die from such events, with south facing trunks splitting open from ice expansion within the trees.
Also, conifers' needles may "blow out" when the internal ice accumulates and bursts the needles open. The needles then have a bleached appearance. This color change usually happens about 10 days after the extreme event.
It's difficult to witness and experience the loss of many trees and bushes at once. Those plants that survive may continue to struggle, never recovering fully.