logo
episode-header-image
Oct 2022
10m 45s

When Autumn Leaves Start To Fall

NPR
About this episode
Botanist and founder of #BlackBotanistsWeek Tanisha Williams explains why some leaves change color during fall and what shorter days and colder temperatures have to do with it. Plus, a bit of listener mail from you! (Encore)

You can always reach the show by emailing shortwave@npr.org. We're also on Twitter @NPRShortWave!

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy
Up next
Today
Are Trump and AI driving a nuclear power boom?
A race started by President Trump is leading to the rapid construction of new, experimental nuclear reactors. If they work, they could power data centers for artificial intelligence. But critics worry that the breakneck pace is compromising safety and public trust. NPR correspond ... Show More
13m 46s
Jul 17
Why did designing the World Cup pitches take eight years?
Yamal and Messi aren’t the only stars of the World Cup finals. If you’ve been watching any of the games, you’ve probably stared directly at a huge, unsung hero: the turf. Turf grass science is a real thing, and it’s John Sorochan’s area of expertise. He’s a scientist at the Unive ... Show More
13m 21s
Jul 15
Our favorite brains, including Einstein's stolen one
At Short Wave, we love a good brain. Which is why we’ve had a lot of conversations over the years with NPR’s neuroscience reporter, Jon Hamilton. Jon’s been writing about brains for over 15 years, from tiny brain organoids that grow in a dish, to fruit fly brains, mouse brains an ... Show More
13m 52s
Recommended Episodes
Nov 2012
Why do leaves change colors in the fall?
<p>Ah, autumn - arguably the most beautiful time of the year, thanks to the vibrant colors trees put on display as they close up for the winter. Ever wonder why and how trees change color in the fall? Chuck and Josh have it down pat and explain it here.</p><p> </p> Learn more abo ... Show More
23m 8s
Sep 2023
Episode 181 - The Autumn Leaves
The Autumn of our lives - both literally and figuratively - is a time of change. We go from the vibrancy of summer, to the golds and reds and brisk breezes of the fall, which leads us into the dark of winter. If you aren't embracing all that is Autumn, you'll want to tune into th ... Show More
27m 32s
Sep 2022
🍂 FALL & AUTUMN Inspired Affirmations
Are you ready to harness the beautiful autumn season before you? Like fall leaves falling from their branches, let’s release what no longer serves and embrace the winds of change together. Grab a PSL, cozy up, and press play. 🎧 Spotify Listeners Tap "Follow" to get a gentle noti ... Show More
2m 53s
Oct 2017
Why the Leaves Change Color (Rebroadcast)
This week we bring you the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Native American) story on why the leaves change color in the autumn. This beautiful story has been passed down through the oral tradition and we've interviewed multiple Haudenosaunee storytellers to bring you the same version mem ... Show More
15m 31s
Oct 2025
Ep.174 Fall Is Here
The air is crispier, the leaves are turning, and pumpkin spice is back! Which can only mean one thing: fall is here! Okay, in this episode, we’re talking about all the fall vibes. From preparing our home for the cozy season to some fall activities we like, and we also touched on ... Show More
1 h
Oct 2024
Who is ready for SEASONAL DEPRESSION? ( The science of seasons )
<p>Autumn is HITTING! So today we are talking about how seasons affect the human body. Why do we get depressed in winter? Why do leaves change colour? Why do people have more sex in the summer? How is the climate crisis affecting seasons? Today we are explaining the science of se ... Show More
50m 49s
Oct 2024
Outside in the Autumn
Our stories today get you out into the fresh autumn air to watch the leaves turn and fall. We’ll start with The Corn Maze or the Say Yes Club, where we’ll travel with some friends out into the country and try our luck at getting lost and then found among the stalks. Then we’ll st ... Show More
36m 30s
Mar 2024
Turn over a new leaf this autumn
It's the autumn equinox. Why not take your cue from nature and start your own journey of renewal? As deciduous trees shed their leaves, thinking about clearing out what no longer serves you and making room for new growth. LINKS Follow @novapodcastsofficial on Instagram CREDITS Ho ... Show More
2m 11s