I always think of October as a bumper month in the gardens, and it has certainly become an extension of late summer over the past 30 years. With an absence of significant frost and many more warm or very mild sunny days, there is much more to enjoy. The roses still look great around the gardens, as do our many dahlias. The most colourful varieties are Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ and ‘David Howard’. Rudbeckias will also continue to peak this month, especially the bright Rudbeckia fulgida. Our Japanese anemones will cheer the dullest day. Many of our mature trees change colour, displaying rich hues of golds and yellows, oranges, reds and purples. The sweetgum is particularly impressive near the well pool with its orange, red and then deep purple foliage. The tulip trees will turn golden yellow, as will our impressive 200-year-old black walnut.

We will cut all the long grass areas in October, ready for the first snowdrops to appear after Christmas. Our fantastic gardeners, Rob, Jo, Tracey, Jess, Megs and Anna, will also be busy cutting our yew and Euonymus hedges before the weather turns too cold. October is probably the best month to dig new borders, lift and divide plants, or even plant a new border. The grass continues to grow strongly well into November, and we will also scarify, aerate and feed the lawns if required. Jo has been busy harvesting dried flowers to incorporate into the beautiful Christmas displays in the Palace next month. Many of these flowers are hanging in our offices as well as in our potting shed!

We look forward to welcoming you in the gardens this month.