Garden Blog

There is something deeply comforting about autumn – the light softens and the garden settles into a gentle calm after summer’s energy.

This year we have been treated to a breathtaking display of colour, as leaves shift from green to rich ochres, warm oranges and deep crimson tones.

As the garden settles into its quieter rhythm, there is still so much to enjoy. Autumn is the perfect month to prepare for the colder months ahead while soaking up the last burst of colour.

In the garden, it’s the time to plant spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils and alliums for a beautiful display next year. Fruit trees and bushes can be pruned now. The idea of pruning your fruit trees, is to create a good shape and to do this, take out any crossing branches or those that make the tree look mishappen. Finish off by putting grease bands on the trunks – this ensures you trap wingless female moths before they can lay eggs.

November is the perfect time to plant bare root roses, not only for growth as the shrub is dormant and hasn’t the need to support leaves and buds so can concentrate on establishing roots, but they are also cheaper to buy than potted roses and there is often greater varieties to choose from.

It is also a good time to plant bare root trees and shrubs. Hedging is especially good to plant now.

Planting hedging while dormant means the hedge won’t be losing water through leaves or expending energy on top growth. Many hedge species are sold bare root or root balled only in winter and this makes them cheaper, along with being easier to plant. Hedges and trees planted in Autumn tend to grow more evenly and fill out faster, because their early root establishment supports balance growth.

As autumn progresses into winter, walk around you garden and see if you can add any structure in the form of evergreens or even deciduous topiary which will help to anchor the garden.

Don’t forget to rake and compost fallen leaves as they will make a wonderful mulch for beds and borders. Creating leaf mould is really one of the simplest ways to increase the crumb structure of the soil, add water retention, encourage beneficial soil life by fostering a rich community of fungi and microbes, suppress weeds and mulch plants. Not only is it cost effective but also, ecofriendly and sustainable.

Everywhere you go, there is that sense of change and of nature winding down- but with a final glorious burst of colour before winters rest.

Beyond the garden, I have been making the most of the season, walking through woodlands and landscapes where trees and shrubs have been at their best.

Squirrels have been very busy collecting nuts to store away for the colder months, and many varieties of different garden birds feasting on the last of the seed heads, filling the garden with movement and gentle chatter.

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I hope you find a moment to step outside and soak up some of nature’s bounty – all those beautiful colours before the rain and chill of winter settle in.

I have also just opened my Christmas Shop (link) over on my little garden shop, filled with festive treasures and hand sourced pieces from wonderful British artisans. Thoughtful things, to bring a touch of warmth and wonder to the season ahead.