In Bloom, October
In Bloom This Month
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.
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.
Tips For Your Garden
From Our Gardening Team
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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