Since mid-July, I’ve noticed something strange in several maple trees I’ve driven by: their leaves are starting to show fall color! Sometimes it’s just the tips of the branches turning red or yellow; other times, it’s concentrated in one section of the canopy. It’s eye-catching, but also a little concerning. After all, it’s not supposed to look like October out there.Extension’s Yard and Garden News gives some reasons why trees may seem to turn color earlier than expected . There are some benign reasons for color changes as well as indicators that something may be stressing your tree.Early color could be a stress signalThough some maple varieties turn color earlier than others, when maples start changing color in midsummer, it may be about the health of the tree. Trees respond to stress by shedding leaves or shifting pigments, trying to conserve energy and protect themselves. Too much of a good thing?This year, one major stressor stands out. This summer’s excessive rains could be the culprit in turning our trees early.Maple’s shallow root systems, combined with saturated soils, can cause problems. Maples are especially sensitive to standing water, which can quickly stress their roots.When roots sit in soggy soil for too long, they can’t get the oxygen they need. That leads to poor nutrient uptake, and the tree may respond by dropping leaves or changing color—much like it would in fall, but for all the wrong reasons.Other stress factors to watch forWhile rain is a big player this season, it’s not the only one. Maples are sensitive to a range of environmental challenges:Drought and heat: Dry spells can dehydrate leaves, especially during hot, windy days.Nutrient deficiencies: Low nitrogen or other key nutrients can slow chlorophyll production, revealing reds and yellows.Compacted soil: Heavy foot traffic or construction can compress soil, limiting root function.Pests and diseases: Fungal infections like anthracnose or verticillium wilt, or insect damage, can cause localized leaf discoloration and drop.What you can do to helpStart by checking your soil. Is it soggy? Bone dry? Somewhere in between? Mulching can help regulate moisture, but make sure it’s not piled against the trunk — think donuts, not volcanoes. If you’re seeing standing water, consider improving drainage or gently aerating the soil.A soil test can also help pinpoint nutrient issues. And if you suspect disease or pests, it’s worth calling in a certified arborist for a closer look.Don’t panic, but don’t ignore itEarly leaf color doesn’t mean your tree is doomed. It could be a heads-up that something’s off, and with a little care, most maples bounce back.So next time you see a red leaf fluttering down in mid-summer, don’t reach for your pumpkin spice latte just yet. Your tree might just be asking for a little help., Early color could be a stress signal Though some maple varieties turn color earlier than others, when maples start changing color in midsummer, it may be about the health of the tree. Trees respond to stress by shedding leaves or shifting pigments, trying to conserve energy and protect themselves., A maple tree on the site of the former Suntrust bank in Black Mountain is set for removal to make way for a Circle K gas station. A Black Mountain resident has started a petition to save the tree. After two recent experiences with wildlife, Black Mountain resident Mandie Carter said she knew she had a calling..