Fall color continues to progress very fast here in southern Iowa. Color is now abundant and beautiful in all trees species. Maples are turning beautiful shades of burgundy, fire red,orange and yellow. Silvers maples and Hickories are turning golden yellow. Oaks are turning yellow and red. 63rd street between West Des Moines and Norwalk is especially beautiful right now. Looking at the entire tree canopy shows color is high and painted with beautiful colors, and it looks great with the Des Moines city skyline! I would rate Des Moines at High Color with 80% of trees now turned colors. Peak fall color should happen by the end of this upcoming week. Now is the time to see colors in this part of Iowa so get out and enjoy!

Now the entire state of Iowa is either in high or peak color. Fall color is now at its peak roughly north of Highway 20. Spencer is still holding only peak color, but I’ve heard that trees are loosing leaves quite fast in the northern part of the state. South of 20 high color is being found and it is great for viewing. I expect the northern part of Iowa will be past peak by the end of next week and the remainder of the start will reach its peak in the next few days to the end of this week. Be sure to get out and enjoy these beautiful colors!