Why Are Leaves Starting To Change While It's Still Hot Outside?

“There are several reasons why the leaves begin to change before ‘sweater weather’ hits our region,” says Lukas Suzano, arborist with Nashville Davey Tree. What Causes Leaves to Change ColorHeat and drought—two environmental stressors impacting much of the South—are primary factors for early leaf color change, says Suzano. Yellowing or Browning Leaves and Early Leaf DropCause: This is likely the result of drought-related stress that causes the tree to shut down photosynthesis. How Does Early Leaf Change Affect the Fall Color ShowWhile drought can lead to early leaf drop and color change, the hues you might experience will be far more muted than they would otherwise be. The reduction of chlorophyll that causes these early fall signs of distress has more repercussions than meets the eye.