When summer ends, gardeners can enjoy fresh bursts of colour from autumn-flowering heathers. These hardy plants, mostly from the Erica genus, help keep gardens lively well into the cooler months. Their small, bell-shaped flowers brighten up borders from late summer through winter. Not only do they add vibrant hues of purple, pink, and white, but their evergreen foliage also creates attractive ground cover even after the flowers have faded. This makes autumn heathers a valuable addition to any garden, introducing texture and visual interest when many other plants are starting to fade.

Planting autumn heathers is a straightforward process that yields great rewards. They thrive in acidic soil, so if your garden’s soil is neutral or alkaline, it’s best to plant them in containers filled with ericaceous compost. A sunny or lightly shaded spot is ideal, as this will encourage a profusion of blooms. When planting heathers in the ground, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and gently firm the soil around the plant. Water them thoroughly after planting to help them establish a strong root system.

Looking after autumn heathers is easy and rewarding. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, especially if the weather is dry. Adding chip bark as mulch helps keep in moisture and stops weeds. Once the flowers fade, trim the old spikes in late winter or early spring to help the plants grow bushier and bloom more next year. With just a bit of care, these low-maintenance plants will keep your garden colourful well into autumn.