Fall colors are expected to explode across most of the state this coming weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Ohioans and out-of-state visitors are encouraged to explore a state park, nature preserve, wildlife area or forest this October to enjoy the many free amenities that they offer, as well as the fall color Ohio provides.
“It’s time to grab your hiking boots and hit the trails because we are heading into near peak and peak fall color across the state,” said ODNR Fall Color Forester Jamie Regula. “It seems like this past week colors have made a dramatic change with some of the most vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges of the season.”
This time of year is a great time to locate and identify invasive plant species. For example, honeysuckle shrubs are some of the last shrubs to drop leaves in the fall and will often stay green into late November. Multiflora rose has green stems all winter which are easy to spot and treat in wooded areas. Of course, one of the most popular invasive species used in landscaping is burning bush. Burning bush is nicely shaped and attractive all year, but in the fall, it sparks to life with vibrant red foliage. While this shrub may be attractive, once established, it grows so densely that it out-competes most native plants.
If you are thinking about planting trees or shrubs on your property, we recommend researching the species you would like to plant. If you need additional help or guidance, connect with a qualified forester or your local Ohio State Extension agent for help!
Looking to find places to go to see fall color this coming weekend? Here are some of the best to see some amazing fall foliage right now:
- Alum Creek State Park
- Beaver Creek State Forest
- Deer Creek State Park
- Harrison Lake State Park
- Indian Lake State Park
- John Bryan State Park/Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
Those interested in finding the most eye-catching leaves throughout the season should check out ODNR’s fall color website, the official guide to the changing colors. The website includes:
- Weekly color updates and information to help plan a fall color adventure;
- Ideas for scenic road trips;
- Unique overnight accommodations at Ohio State Parks; and
- Fun activities to do around the state.
ODNR and Ohio. Find It Here. encourage people to share fall color photos using #FallinOhio and #OhioFindItHere. For more fall color photos, follow ODNR, Ohio State Parks, and Ohio. Find It Here. on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @ohiodnr, @OHStateParks, and @Ohio.FindItHere.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
Editor’s Note: This is the third in a series of updates that will highlight some of the best locations to enjoy Ohio’s fall color season. News releases will be issued from ODNR weekly on Wednesdays to announce the reports through October. Fall foliage video reports are available online with information from Jamie Regula, ODNR’s fall color forester. See the attachment to the right for this week’s fall color update.
