Drought across Canada could lead to duller fall colours, Ontario biologist says

An Ontario biologist says drought-stricken parts of Canada could be in for some underwhelming fall foliage if stressed trees lose out on the energy needed to generate some of the season's most brilliant colours.

Biology professor Susan Dudley at McMaster University says trees in dried out parts of the country could see their leaves die off rather than turn red.

As the days shorten, green chlorophyll in tree leaves starts to break down and reveals the yellow and orange pigments underneath.

Yet Dudley says some trees, such as maple, oak and sumac, synthesize a pigment in the autumn responsible for turning their leaves into the reds and purples associated with the most brilliant foliage.

If a tree is too stressed, such as from intense drought, Dudley says the leaves may die off before tha