The Leaves are Changing, and not Just Colors

By: Mallory Jordan, moderately crafty

The uncommonly warm climate that Indiana had this winter has affected more than just the weather.

In an online article, The Iowa Department of Natural Resources have found in their weekly reports on fall conditions that the leaves are changing early this year.

"The 2012 drought explains most of the accelerated changes this season. The drought stressed trees. Many are shutting down production of chlorophyll (the component that keeps leaves green) early. That means the leaves' colors are coming through," Matt Milner explained in his article.

The actual report proving the claims from The Iowa Department of Natural Resources's research is at the bottom of the article.

This has not only been a problem in the midwest. In Australia, evidence exists that shows the leaves are shrinking. Science Daily and University of Adelaide researchers have linked the shrinkage specifically to climate change.

To better understand this leafy phenomenon, CNN posted a great article where, "Sharron, a science communication specialist with the National Park Service's Northeast Temperate Network in Vermont, explains the science behind the beautiful colors of fall." The article thoroughly explains why leaves change colors, and why the same specific colors.

But, you can create your own leaves this fall. You can even choose what color that the leaves will turn. Just get some gold spray paint, canvas, paintbrush and acrylic paint to bring the colors of fall into your own home.

To improve the image of the leaves post spray paint, use very flat leaves. Using some kind of adhesive under the leaves or contact paper that sticks to the leaves and the canvas will help this issue as well. Otherwise, the spray paint will blow the leaves out of place and get under the stem especially, ruining the contrast of the image as you can kind of see with the red leaves.

If you feel inspired by fall like I do and want to further your crafty side after this project, go out and take some photographs. In honor of fall officially being here, Gizmodo's annual shooting challenge has begun. Through November 5 they are accepting jpg photos that show the beautiful colors of fall. So pull on a comfy cardigan, grab a camera and send pictures to contests@gizmodo.com!