Is Autumn Coming Early? | September At Trebah | Darren's Diary скачать в хорошем качестве

Is Autumn Coming Early? | September At Trebah | Darren's Diary

In this month’s edition of Darren’s Diary, Head Gardener Darren takes us on a September walk through Trebah Garden, exploring the changing atmosphere as summer draws to a close and early signs of autumn begin to appear. September is always a fascinating month in the garden, with late-summer flowers still providing colour, while foliage and structure begin to shift towards the richness of autumn. One of the highlights this month is Abelia x grandiflora. This reliable shrub continues to provide delicate flowers well into the season, with a gentle fragrance that adds an extra layer of enjoyment for visitors strolling past. It is a plant that bridges the gap between summer and autumn, holding its own even as the days begin to shorten. Nearby, Azara serrata catches the eye with its unusual white berries, which stand out against the foliage. While not as widely known as some other garden plants, its ornamental value in September is undeniable, offering something both visually striking and seasonally appropriate. The dramatic presence of Gunnera x cryptica is also on display. Some of the enormous leaves have started to fall, particularly with the stronger winds we’ve been experiencing, yet the famous Gunnera Passage still remains tall and impressive. This plant is one of Trebah’s most iconic features, and even in its gradual seasonal decline, it continues to command attention. In Hydrangea Valley, there is still an abundance of colour despite the challenges of a very dry summer. The hydrangeas have held up remarkably well, and visitors can still enjoy their bold shades as the season progresses. It is a reminder of the resilience of certain plants and the importance of thoughtful garden management in keeping displays looking their best even in difficult conditions. September also brings the first flowers of Banksia integrifolia, an Australian native that is just beginning its long flowering season, which will continue right through to November. Its distinctive flower spikes provide an exotic contrast to the more traditional late-summer plants, adding diversity and interest to the garden’s seasonal highlights. Another species of Abelia, Abelia schumannii, is also in bloom. This variety is particularly noteworthy for its dainty pink flowers, which are complemented by a light fragrance. Although more subtle than its cousin Abelia x grandiflora, it contributes a refined and delicate charm to the September landscape. Clerodendrum trichotomum is also at its best this month, with clusters of creamy-white flowers that fill the air with fragrance. Later in the season, these flowers will give way to extraordinary metallic-blue seeds, which provide a striking display against their pink calyces. For now, visitors can enjoy the contrast between the blossoms and the anticipation of what’s still to come. Finally, Cercidiphyllum japonicum is beginning to show its autumn colours, which this year have arrived earlier than usual. Its heart-shaped leaves are taking on warm tones, and as they fall, they release a distinctive burnt sugar scent, a unique characteristic that makes this tree one of the most intriguing in the garden at this time of year. Through Darren’s eyes, September at Trebah is revealed as a time of transition. While summer flowers linger, the first hints of autumn colour and fragrance begin to emerge, creating a garden atmosphere that is rich, layered, and ever-changing. If you’d like to experience these seasonal highlights for yourself, visit www.trebahgarden.co.uk to plan your trip. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for Darren’s monthly diaries, where you can follow the rhythm of the seasons and discover what makes Trebah such a special garden throughout the year.