September 6, 2006

September has arrived, Labor Day has passed and the summer has (unofficially) come to an end, all signs that the foliage season has arrived. The Foliage Network (http://www.foliagenetwork.com) is geared up to once again provide the very best foliage information available.

In the Northeast U.S., the period of May - August was quite warm and wet. In the month of July, temperatures were particularly high with average daily temperatures in many areas averaging two to three degrees above normal. In August, the temperatures eased a bit, with readings closer to normal. In May and June, precipitation amounts were well above average in many portions of the Northeast. Some areas experiencing the most rain during these two months were Boston, Massachusetts (>16 inches above normal), Portland, Maine (>14 inches above normal), and Concord, New Hampshire (>13 inches above normal). The abundance of precipitation this spring and summer has led to very healthy trees and leaves. This is very good news for the upcoming foliage season.

At this very early stage of the foliage season, very little color is being reported. Every year, very young trees and trees in distress show early color, this year being no exception. How will this year's foliage season be? Only time will tell. The fall-time weather always plays a role in the timing of the color change and the duration of the foliage season. This summer's weather has been favorable in most areas, a good first step toward a great, colorful autumn. Going forward, look for mild, sunny days followed by cool, crisp (not freezing) nights. That, coupled with normal, or below normal rainfall should lead to a colorful and long lasting foliage season. Watch for The Foliage Network reports throughout the fall to keep up to date with the latest foliage conditions.

This information provided by Marek D. Rzonca, The Foliage Network.