Autumn, Gardening Tips, Latest News
Plants and Trees Stealing the Show in Your Garden
As the days shorten and a crispness enters the air, Autumn transforms our gardens into a canvas of rich, warm hues. It’s a season of quiet beauty, where the last of summer’s blooms give way to spectacular foliage and interesting seed heads. For gardeners, autumn is a vital time for preparation, but also for appreciating the incredible natural artistry on display. Here’s a look at why Autumn is so special in the garden, and six examples of plants and trees that truly shine during this golden season.
The Magic of Autumn in the Garden
Autumn isn’t just about things dying back; it’s a period of transformation and vital activity. Trees and shrubs prepare for winter dormancy, drawing nutrients back into their systems, which results in those breath taking leaf colour changes. It’s also a time when many plants produce berries, offering a vibrant splash of colour and a crucial food source for birds. For gardeners, the cooler, damper conditions make it ideal for planting and planning for the year ahead.
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
No tree is more synonymous with Autumn colour than the Japanese Maple. Its delicate, lobed leaves turn a fiery blaze of orange, red, and yellow, creating a stunning focal point in any garden. With many different varieties to choose from, you can find a Japanese Maple to suit any size of garden, from a small courtyard to a large lawn.
Oak Tree (Quercus)
The mighty oak, a symbol of strength and longevity, puts on a magnificent show in autumn. Its large, familiar leaves transition from green to shades of deep russet and golden brown, often holding onto their colour long into the season. The acorns that fall to the ground also provide a valuable food source for wildlife.
Aster
While many perennials are finishing their show, Asters are just getting started. These daisy-like flowers, often in shades of purple, pink, and white, provide a burst of fresh colour late in the season. They are a valuable food source for bees and butterflies that are still foraging before winter.
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses truly come into their own in autumn. Their feathery plumes and tall, swaying stalks catch the low autumn sun, creating a beautiful golden haze in the garden. Plants like Miscanthus and Stipa provide excellent texture and movement, and their dried seed heads offer great winter interest.
Cotoneaster
A shrub that earns its place in the autumn garden for its berries alone, the Cotoneaster is a feast for the eyes and for birds. Following its small white flowers in spring, the plant produces a cascade of vibrant red or orange berries that cling to the branches throughout the season, attracting a variety of birds.
Hydrangea
While we often think of Hydrangeas for their summer blooms, many varieties offer beautiful autumn interest. Their large flower heads can dry on the plant, transforming into shades of papery tan and dusty pink. These dried blooms provide wonderful structure and a vintage charm that can be left on the plant to enjoy well into winter.
