It's about that time, Arkansas! Each year, many look forward to the fall foliage, which is shaped not just by fall weather itself, but also by what happens in spring and summer.

How the Seasons Shape the Colors

Spring sets the stage. A wet, mild spring helps trees build reserves and push out healthy leaves. Summer then determines how well those leaves will hold up. Adequate rain and moderate heat can translate to strong, healthy leaves, while hot, dry stretches can scorch or brown leaves early. Finally, September and October matter most for the show itself. Cool nights and sunny days help trap sugars in the leaves, producing the reds and purples we love. When nights stay warm or storms roll through, those colors are often muted or cut short.

This Year’s Setup

Summer of 2025 was tough,

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