Leaves are green because of something called chlorophyll. This is a special green pigment that helps plants make food from sunlight, air, and water — a process called photosynthesis.
What Happens in Autumn?
When the days get shorter and the air becomes cooler, trees start getting ready for winter. They stop making food, and the chlorophyll in the leaves begins to disappear.
Where Do the Colours Come From?
As the green chlorophyll fades away, other colours that were hiding in the leaves start to appear!
🍁 Yellow and orange come from pigments called carotenoids.
🍂 Red and purple come from pigments called anthocyanins.
These pigments were always there — we just couldn’t see them when the green was on top!
Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves?
Trees drop their leaves to save energy and protect themselves from cold weather. With no leaves to freeze or dry out, the tree stays safe until spring.
Isn’t Nature Amazing?
So next time you see bright red, golden, or orange leaves, you’ll know it’s the tree’s way of preparing for a long winter nap!
🍂 See You Next Time! 🍂
Isn’t nature full of surprises? Now that you know why leaves change colour, keep an eye out for those brilliant reds, golden yellows, and pumpkin oranges on your next autumn walk!
Stay curious, Tiny Champion — there’s always more to explore!
