Autumnal glory

Having colour in your garden all year round involves both planning and planting.

Ideally, trees and shrubs should be decided on when first landscaping, however flowers can be planted seasonally to add colour throughout the year.

Autumn is thought of by many as a time when plants are shutting down for the winter, yet it may also be one of the most vibrant seasons in a garden, with a bit of forethought.

Annual flowering varieties such as pansies, violas, alyssum, cornflowers, cosmos, and sweet peas, plus perennials including cyclamen, chrysanthemums, and geraniums will deliver glorious colours in a range of hues. Pink, red, blue, yellow, orange, purple and white will brighten up any autumn garden. A favourite of mine are chrysanthemums.

Often considered an old-fashioned bloom, they’re known for their gorgeous colours and long-lasting flowers. They may be grown inside or outside,
in pots or gardens, and are fabulous cut flowers.

Colours, shapes, and forms vary hugely, and flower types can be single, double, anemone, centred, two-toned or spoon-shaped. Easy to grow, many start out as indoor plants, and after flowering are cut back and replanted outdoors. They prefer a well-lit position indoors, away from humidity and draughty areas, or outside in full sun with well-drained and moist soil.