These small trees and shrubs bring brilliant fall foliage to your yard
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When it comes to radiant fall foliage color, we are the envy of the country. A gorgeous leaf-peeping season needs enough summer rain to keep plants healthy, warm late September/October days, and cool, crisp nights to slow leaf senescence. All three factors have converged this year to produce one of the better foliage shows in recent years. After dazzling our eyes, the leaves provide their final gifts: an insulating blanket for roots, habitat for overwintering insects, and raw materials for future soil fecundity. Acadia National Park, the Kancamagus, the Green Mountains of Vermont, the Berkshires, and the Cape and Islands are each well-known for their seasonal displays, but traveling to all of them is challenging. Why not bring some of that autumn brilliance into your own garden? Fall foliage is framed by a window aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad's Mountaineer excursion as the train travels through New Hampshire's White Mountains on Oct. 8, 2026. Erin Clark/Globe StaffThis week, I will share my favorite small trees and shrubs with exceptional fall color. They also have fruit, bark interest, and wildlife value.
This article is an excerpt. To read the full content, visit the original source. The Boston Globe
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