Yellow

Before a deciduous tree starts snoring all the way to spring, it needs to put on the brakes! First, it slows down the photosynthesis process, reserving the chlorophyll it no longer needs for later. This reveals other pigments that also participate in photosynthesis: carotenoids. Caro-what? Carotene, like, in carrots? Yes! These same pigments are responsible for leaves turning yellow! Among the trees that wear yellow, the following are abundant in our forests: birch, balsam poplar, quaking aspen, alder and maple. To see them transformed into real gold nuggets, nothing beats the light of the morning sun. A walk or hike at this time of day is sure to dazzle you!

The shimmery autumn colours of Charlevoix’s forests