September’s Secret Garden

Why Autumn is the Second Spring

As September  comes knocking, there’s magic stirring in the soil.   While others mourn the growing season, we gardeners know better – autumn is nature’s second spring, and September is the beginning and most spectacular start.

Why Autumn Planting is Pure Garden Gold
In the British climate, autumn planting is like giving your garden a head start on next year’s glory. The soil still holds some warmth while the rains return, creating perfect conditions for root establishment. Trees and hedging planted now and in the next couple of months  spend winter quietly building strong root structures, ready to be magnificent come spring.

Quick Facts:
Root Development: 6 months of establishment before spring growth
Water Stress: Minimal with autumn’s natural rainfall
Establishment Success: 90% higher than spring planting
First Year Growth: Up to 30% more vigorous

Autumn’s Colour Champions
For spectacular autumn displays, consider these beauties from our collection:

Our Top 5 Trees for Autumn Drama
Japanese Maples – Fiery reds and golden yellows
Liquidambar – Stunning orange to deep burgundy
Parrotia persica – Brilliant scarlet and amber tones
Quercus varieties (Oak trees)  – Rich bronze and russet                                                                                          Fruit trees including Apples, Pear, Plums and Nut varieties like Hazelnut

Hedging Heroes:
Fagus sylvatica (Beech) – Holds golden-bronze leaves through winter
Carpinus betulus (Hornbeam) – Warm amber autumn colour

Caragh’s Garden Notebook:
Plant rootballed and bare-root trees and hedging from November through March, but container-grown trees, hedging and specimens can be planted year-round. In our experience, September to November plantings establish beautifully, taking advantage of soil warmth and autumn rains, giving your plants the best possible start

September isn’t the end of the garden story – it’s the beginning of next year’s masterpiece.