Who's in charge of coloring this Fall?

Last year's Fall colors were absolutely spectacular while, so far, this season's pallet doesn't seem headed that way. The canyon oaks (Acer saccharum)which usually are first to set the tone appear to be turning into a washed out brown instead of their usual bright, crimson color.

If no one will step forward to take responsibility for this visual disaster, what's at fault? We consecutively had two similar years: Little snow, nice and warm summer and yet this September, colors are disappointing. Too much stress on trees? Quite possible; two dry, consecutive seasons might do it.

What to do? Fire Mother Nature? No, this isn't the time of year to upset her... Just marvel at last year's Fall's photos and pray for snow!