September: The May of Autumn

With the meteorological start of autumn today, September 1st, nature begins to showcase its vibrant colors. Since the first weather recordings in the 19th century, September 1st has been considered the beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, as the first day of the month is defined as the meteorological start of a season, which coincides with the astronomical autumn equinox (around September 22 or 23).

A Burst of Color in the Leaves

In autumn, plants break down chlorophyll in their leaves, storing it in the trunk or branches. This process creates the stunning yellow-red-brown sea of colors. Once the plant ceases to nourish its leaves, they dry out and fall off. The fallen autumn leaves serve as a winter shelter and food source for many animals, such as butterfly larvae, hedgehogs, and ladybugs. The ground also benefits from the fallen leaves, which form a warm, moist insulating layer. This allows the first spring plants to grow faster under the protection of the leaf layer. The decaying leaves eventually turn into humus, providing essential nutrients for trees and shrubs.

The End of Summer

The end of summer often brings a sense of nostalgia for many people. However, the third season has its own unique charm: it is a time for harvest, adorned with colorful autumn leaves, and celebrated with festivals like the harvest festival and the golden “Indian summer,” which, with its ethereal light and pleasant temperatures, is nearly unmatched in terms of comfort. An old farmer’s proverb wisely says, “September is the May of autumn.”