Experts at the arboretum are witnessing a two-phased appearance of colour, brought on by the unusual weather experienced this year.
Whilst the dry spring brought on an early change in some trees thought to be ‘stressed’ through drought, the warm start to October has meant many other specimens have stayed green for longer.
The warm weather has delayed the cold snap which spurs on the chemical change required to produce autumnal reds, oranges and yellows. Colder nights are thought to be more conducive to bringing on good autumn colour.
Simon Toomer, Westonbirt Arboretum Director commented: “What began as an early show of autumn colour at the end of August, slowed during September and the start of October when the warmer weather re-appeared.
“This has meant that many of Westonbirt’s famous Japanese maples stayed green for longer than in previous years. However, the recent colder nights have speeded things up and we’re now seeing an autumn colour display we are much more used to.”
Autumn hotspots for colour include the National Japanese Maple Collection and Rotary Glade in Silk Wood, and Acer Glade in the Old Arboretum. Visitors can follow the appearance of autumn colour on Westonbirt Arboretum’s colour watch blog. Find out more at www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt-autumn.
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