Early Signs

Some early signs of seasonal change are appearing in the Mid-Atlantic region.One of them is fall webworm.This relatively harmless insect,the caterpillar of a moth,drapes its webs over leaves beginning in the middle of August.Another sign is premature turning.Here and there,isolated leaves are changing color,shutting down early because of stress-especially dryness.Ragweed,a native plant that causes allergic reactions,is popping up now.Fortunately,it is shallowly rooted and easily pulled.Old field aster and Canada goldenrod have matured,but may not be quite ready to bloom.Small acorns are becoming noticeable on oak branches.