Right now, my garden is putting on its most beautiful and understated show as autumn settles in. Summer’s energy has faded, replaced by deep reds, yellows and oranges. The Acer stands out, its leaves turning brilliant crimson red before they fall. These bold colours are echoed by the berries that are starting to appear on the cotoneasters and pyracantha..

Berries, blooms, and botanical contrasts

The change from summer green to autumn colours is clear with the sudden appearance of fruit. The large-leaf cotoneaster is full of berries just about to turn red, adding a classic autumn touch, and the pyracantha is covered with berries in bright orange clusters. These berries are an important food source for birds. Nearby, the Lords and Ladies Arum maculatum are also going through a change, with their berry spikes turning from pale green to a strong, bright red.

Late-season life and unexpected flowers

The tall purple loosestrife has finished blooming, and the foliage is now turning a contrasting yellow, orange and red. Other plants are still showing late signs of floral life. The zebra grass is now sending up its soft, feathery flowers, bringing movement and texture to the garden. The remaining small bell-shaped flowers of Heuchera are holding on but starting to fade, and the climbing roses continue to produce beautiful white blooms.

A transition is in the air

As nature gets ready for the colder months ahead. Unusual fungi are popping up on old wood, helping to break down garden debris. Ivy flowers are starting to bloom with pollinators flocking to feast on the abundant late-season pollen and nectar. The evergreen grasses by the stream shine in the autumn sun, creating a crisp background for the changing garden. This is a time of slowdown, but the garden is still full of life.