Autumn:
As someone who spends the majority of their time outside I am acutely aware of the slightest shift in seasons. The temperature of the breeze on any given day, the subtle change in light, frantic activity of the bees all signal autumn is arriving.
Here in the Pacific Northwest, autumn is long and drawn out. There are days of clear, bright sky the light golden as the sun begins to set. Nights black and crisp, the moon luminous against her dark backdrop.
As the season progresses, along with sunny days, the sky becomes overcast with the heavy grey days our area is known for. The garden requires much attention at this time. Ornamental bushes and vines are tended to, roses mulched and supported, climbers receive a heavy pruning. Boxwood hedges are trimmed so they can support themselves during the heavy rains and occasional snow. The annuals that offered glorious late summer and autumn color are now exhausted. Some are trimmed down, others are left to offer seeds and shelter for the birds during the winter months. Dahlias are lifted and prepped for storing.
The days are shorter as autumn marches forward, and as the sole gardener of my domain every available minute must be spent tucking everything in before winters arrival.
The fragrance of autumn is unique and unmistakeable here on our property. Decaying leaves that have fallen to the ground, the rich soil that is in the patch of woods. The cedar branches, their scent reminding me that Christmas is soon to come.
The raking of leaves has begun. This is a task that I find therapeutic and satisfying. By Novembers end the areas heaviest of fallen leaves will be mostly cleared and transported to the woods where they are spread around offering shelter for the tiniest of creatures and left to decay, further enriching the soil. Leaves that are not raked and relocated are scattered around in their area adding nutrition to the soil and grasses.
As with any season, autumn offers us her unique gifts. Mother Natures signal that the time for rest in the garden is fast approaching.
Wishing you the best of everything.
x Susan