(WKYT) - While it’s the middle of October, there is a noticeable lack of vibrant fall colors, even in prime leaf-peeping spots like the Red River Gorge. So, what’s behind this year’s subdued display?

According to Carrie Spry, a UK Horticulture Extension Agent for Clark County, the primary culprit was a significant lack of rain in August.

“If we had some more rain in August, it would have set us up better, but trees stop doing photosynthesis during a drought, so therefore there are fewer sugars to make more of the colors,” Spry explains.

This means the color change isn’t necessarily behind schedule, but rather, it won’t be as vibrant as Kentuckians are used to seeing.

Leaves drop from stress

“Leaves already start shutting down and stuff, and it causes early leaf drop for many trees, so

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