PHOTOS: Leaves past their prime but still colorful
A majority of the leaves in Butler County are past their “best color” phase, and are now starting to fade and fall off trees in large quantities.
According to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resource’s fall foliage report Oct. 20, the best color for leaves this week will be found in the central and southern Appalachians and the southwestern corner of the state. Cold overnight temperatures should spur the last push of color in oak stands and southeastern forests.
The Mercer County Clear Creek State Forest District service forester reported that foliage has peaked in the region, but a lot of color still remains. Most maples are past peak and have been dropping leaves, but scattered maples and even some entire hillsides still have brilliant yellows, oranges and fiery reds.
Oaks are just starting to turn in some locations, with red oaks showing dazzling shades. Color transition in oaks should accelerate over the forecast week with the recent cold snap. District forests contain a substantial oak component, so visitors to the region should expect attractive fall color to last into next week, according to the foliage report.
In the region, Allegheny, Washington and Greene counties are in peak color until Oct. 26, according to the report.
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Jane's Cabin is framed by trees and fall foliage at Preston Park in Butler Township on Wednesday, October 19, 2022. The building, also known as the Hacienda, was built in 1954. Cary Shaffer/Butler Eagle 10/19/22
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Shane Potter/Butler Eagle 10/20/22
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Wes Ambrose, 57, owner of Ambrose Farm Market, is surrounded by the market's inventory of pumpkins and squash in Cabot on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. The produce is grown locally by Ambrose and partner farms in the Cabot area. Cary Shaffer/Butler Eagle
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Shane Potter/Butler Eagle 10/20/22
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Red oak leaves frame a backlit Flag of the United States at Preston Park in Butler Township on Monday, October 17, 2022. Cary Shaffer Butler Eagle 10/17/22
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Shane Potter/Butler Eagle 10/20/22
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Shane Potter/Butler Eagle 10/20/22
