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| Clematis and roses continue to entertain.
Clematis `Duchess of Albany` (light and dark
pink) and `Flammula` (white/cream flowers)
accompany the dark red hips of rugosa roses.
Michaelmas daisies are out in variety, including
the small white flowers of Aster ericoides.
Autumn fruiting raspberries in red and yellow
appeal to birds and visitors alike and everywhere
there is glorious leaf colour. Hot spots for
this are the hornbeams that line the Grand
Cascade, deep reds and purples on various prunus
and the climbing Vitis vinifera purpurea. |
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In the Bamboo Labyrinth, Fargesia rufa (hardy bamboo) sways so in the autumn wind that the whole area appears to be flowing. This is a hardy plant that can stand up to -20°C and flower in winter.
Look for the Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Katsura tree) between The Treehouse and disabled car park. Pick up and rub some of the fallen smoky-pink/yellow leaves to release the scent of burnt sugar.
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As the leaves change colour and start to
fall the flowers in the garden are joined
by seedheads and berries. Fruit trees and
the last of the summer vegetables need harvesting.
October is all about preparation. Now is
the time to plant spring-flowering bulbs
in borders and containers, alongside wallflowers
and forget-me-nots. If you're planting
tulips pop some grit into the hole first
- they thrive with free drainage. Turning
your compost heap will not only ensure a
fine compost later in the season but will
help work abdominal muscles. Remember to
spread composted leaf mould where the next
crop of root vegetables will be planted to
ensure next year's crop matches the last
harvest.
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