In this Cottage Life article, John Ransom from Davey's Toronto area gives insight into which trees in Canada are the most vibrant and why. 

Posted: September 30, 2025

Fall-colored leaves on a tree in an orchard.The right fall weather conditions—cool nights and warm, sunny days—produce the most vibrant autumn colours, but certain trees are natural showstoppers. “While temperature dictates intensity, it’s just one factor that plays a role in painting a striking fall landscape,” says John Ransom, a senior area manager with Davey Tree Expert Company of Canada. “Trees differ in the types and concentrations of pigments they produce,” he says.

These pigments include chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanins; they’re responsible for a tree’s green, yellow, red, or orange foliage. Plus, evolution and genetics play a part.

“Species that evolved in open-canopy environments, for example, maples, may have developed brighter colours as a form of photoprotection (to prevent damage from sunlight) or even to deter insects,” says Ransom.

Time to get your leaf-peeping pants on! Here are nine native Canadian trees born to bust out that fabulous fall foliage.

To continue reading this article, click here. 

The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1880 and headquartered in Kent, Ohio, Davey has over 12,000 employees who create and deliver sustainable solutions. Davey continues to grow through expertise with the SEED Campus, its newest commitment to training, research and safety. Become part of the Davey legacy by applying today and join one of the top ten largest employee-owned companies in the U.S.

Other News Posts

DJI 0449 Border W
Davey In The News

SmithGroup Transforms Davey Tree Ohio Campus into a Living Laboratory

In this Green Building & Design (gb&d) article, Davey's SEED Campus is highlighted, along with architecture and planning firm SmithGroup, for the sustainable design of the building and property.
Read More
Stock 0045 4978X4978 C434F29
Davey In The News

A Super El Niño is Underway: How Will It Impact Ontario's Fall Colors?

When will my leaves change color? In this Inside Halton article, Dan Sharp from Davey Canada says fall color may be two weeks behind due to warm temperatures. 
Read More
Two Employees (1)
Two Employees (1)

Get In Touch With Us!

We pride ourselves at Davey Tree on providing prompt, professional and personalized service from certified arborists that live, work and engage in your community. Contact one of our Davey Tree specialists for your residential, commercial, utility, or environmental needs.

Let's Find What
You're Looking For!