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As Autumn deepens, the ground is blanketed with leaves, inspiring us all to consider a spot of raking – or at least a brisk kick through the piles. This year, you may have noticed that the colours have been somewhat muted – likely due to the stretch of grey, rain-soaked days and recent storms that have swept through, dulling autumn’s usual vibrancy. Yet even in a season with fewer fiery displays, the annual cycle of leaf fall remains crucial for our local ecosystems. This annual process of renewal is deeply connected to nature recovery, laying the groundwork for healthier landscapes and aiding efforts to revive struggling habitats in Staffordshire. 

To understand why this is so essential, let’s first delve into the fascinating science behind autumn’s colour change – an intricate process involving pigments, length of night, and weather.

Why do leaves change colour?

The brilliant colours of autumn leaves are the final gift of the year from deciduous trees, a breathtaking display created by hidden pigments within each leaf. Pigments are the natural compounds that give leaves their colours, each type producing its own distinct hue.

Throughout spring and summer, green chlorophyll is being constantly produced and repaired, helping trees soak up sunlight and produce sugars that sustain them. Trees also store these sugars for use during the winter dormant season. 

In autumn, as the days become shorter and nights grow cooler, chlorophyll production slows and begins to break down in the leaves eventually allowing other pigments to be revealed. Carotenoids and xanthophylls bring forth shades of orange and yellow, casting a warm glow across the landscape. 

The autumnal show is shaped by weather conditions, too. Perfect conditions for autumn colours include clear, sunny days followed by a series of mild cold fronts that gradually lower temperatures without leading to an early frost. Bright sunlight can also trigger a chemical reaction in some tree species that stimulates the production of anthocyanins, tinting leaves in vibrant reds, purples and crimsons. As is often the case in Britain, 2024 had other ideas, with grey, soggy weather dominating much of the season. Strong winds, like Storm Ashley in mid-October, also swept in early, causing leaves to fall before their colours could fully develop. 

Seasonal cycles are essential for Staffordshire’s biodiversity

Autumn represents more than a seasonal change – it’s a crucial stage in nature’s cycle that supports biodiversity and ecosystem health. As trees shed their leaves, the resulting leaf litter enriches the soil, providing essential nutrients that sustain plants, fungi, and numerous organisms. This process is vital for forest and soil health, creating habitats for insects and feeding a variety of species. Leaf litter also supports local wildlife, offering shelter and food for creatures like woodlice, shrews, hedgehogs, and amphibians.

In Staffordshire, the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) aims to strengthen these cycles by guiding residents to restore and enhance native woodland. By increasing tree cover and expanding natural areas, we allow the cycle of leaf drop and regeneration to continue undisturbed.

The Roaches, with Hen Cloud and Tittesworth Reservoir in the distance— a popular spot for invigorating autumn hikes and a perfect place to connect with nature.

Autumnal processes, like leaf drop and decomposition, also play a role in broader environmental issues such as flooding, air quality, and climate change that affect us all. Leaf litter helps absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and flooding risks, while supporting plant growth that improves air quality. Trees contribute to the carbon cycle, influencing climate stability. Disruptions to these processes, such as climate change or habitat loss, can exacerbate these challenges. Supporting nature recovery, through the LNRS, strengthens these natural cycles, enhancing resilience and mitigating environmental issues.

As farmers and landowners carry out vital autumn tasks, such as harvesting crops and caring for livestock, their efforts contribute to nature recovery. Much of the autumnal beauty we see unfolds in the woodlands and fields they manage, not just in protected reserves, fostering a healthier landscape for all. These land stewards are playing an important role informing the strategy based on their decades of experience working with nature.

Play your role in providing for nature

One way we can support local wildlife is by considering the plants in our own gardens. Many species, like the hazel dormouse, rely on a variety of plants throughout the year for food. While blooms of oak, hawthorn, honeysuckle and bramble are important sources of food early in the year, dormice switch to nuts and berries like hazelnuts and blackberries in the autumn. By planting a mix of native species, we can help provide food for pollinators, invertebrates, birds, and mammals, even into the colder months. Creating plant diversity in gardens and landscapes can provide a steady food supply for these species throughout the year.

Hedgerows are a prime example of habitats that support local wildlife year-round. Plants like ivy and holly, often disliked by gardeners, play an important role in sustaining biodiversity into the autumn. Image credit: People’s Trust for Endangered Species. 

Through the LNRS, we can enhance the benefits of these natural cycles, strengthening our landscapes and supporting a thriving ecosystem. To get involved, sign up for our newsletter and stay updated on upcoming events on our website.

Despite the soggy weather, vibrant autumn colours are still out there – so get outside and explore! For a quieter experience, consider visiting Staffordshire’s hidden gems like Swineholes Wood, Downs Bank, Consall Valley, or Chillington – lesser-known spots that offer beautiful autumn displays away from the crowds.