October’s Garden

I am so glad I live where there are seasons, and in particular autumns. The seasons may not be as distinct as they were in my childhood, but four seasons we still have. Once I accept the growing season is truly over, then I am ready to embrace autumn. The beauty in my October garden is softer and richer…. more mature…like rosehips and wee little crabapples.

Each summer, the near electric blue bracts of this hydrangea shock me, but I adore how the bright color mellows into soft purples and rosy lavender hues come autumn. They are just perfect for picking now, drying, and enjoying into November.

Lovely Autumn Joy Sedum, so beloved by my honeybees. The large clusters of blossoms start as a soft coral pink and then deepen in color as the days cool. They are such an easy care addition to the garden providing welcome late season nectar to pollinators and attracting small seed-eating birds such as finches, chickadees, and grosbeaks. How can you not love such a plant?

The first winds of the season are already tugging the leaves of gold, copper and burgundy from the deciduous trees, but the sturdy hydrangeas and sedums will last past the first light frosts, and the tiny crabapples will provide food for wildlife and cheer my heart well into winter.

In spite of the sadness in the world, Mother Nature remains faithful, the seasons turn and each offers such beauty. Step outside, it will do you good.

xo