BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Natural Resources released its 2025 fall foliage preview this week, predicting that an “abnormally dry” late summer is causing some trees to begin their color change early in the western part of the state.
The DNR’s first fall foliage report of the year notes that a combination of a typical spring and early summer, followed by a recent lack of rain, is setting the stage for a vibrant fall season. The trees’ preparation for winter, prompted by cool nights and bright, sunny days, is expected to lead to a colorful display.
Melissa Nash, a forester in Allegany and Garrett counties, noted that some trees in Garrett County are already turning. “With the wet weather earlier this spring, we have seen more prevalence of the fungal disease tar spot on maples, which causes black spots to appear on the leaves. It’s generally cosmetic, but can cause premature leaf drop,” Nash said. She added that the disease, along with dry August weather, is contributing to the early leaf fall.
Aaron Cook, a forester at Indian Springs Wildlife Management Area, said he is also seeing early color in Washington and western Frederick counties. “Higher elevations of rocky mountain ridges are showing color (birch, blackgum, and some red maple), likely as a result of the flash drought we find ourselves in,” he said.
The report forecasts that color will spread from west to east across the state throughout October and November. The progression is mainly influenced by elevation and temperature, with higher-elevation western areas changing first.
The DNR provided a predicted timeline for peak color:
- Far Western Maryland (Garrett and Allegany counties): The weekend of Oct. 11 for Garrett County, followed by the weekend of Oct. 18 for Allegany County.
- Blue Ridge (Washington, Frederick, and Carroll counties): The weekend of Oct. 25.
- Central Maryland (Montgomery, Howard, Baltimore, Harford, Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, and Cecil counties): The weekend of Nov. 1.
- Eastern Shore: The weekend of Nov. 8.
The DNR’s weekly fall foliage reports will be posted every Thursday into November to provide updates on the color progression. The department also encourages residents to share photos of their foliage sightings.
Photo via Pixabay
Please follow and like us:
Disclaimer: This news has been automatically collected from the source link above. Our website does not create, edit, or publish the content. All information, statements, and opinions expressed belong solely to the original publisher. We are not responsible or liable for the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of any news, nor for any statements, views, or claims made in the content. All rights remain with the respective source.