As the golden hues of autumn begin to paint the landscape, there’s a palpable shift in the air—a crispness that invites sweaters, hot beverages, and a chance to transform your garden into an autumnal haven. I had the pleasure of speaking with Lydia Thompson, a seasoned garden stylist based in the heart of Cheshire, who shared her insights on embracing the spirit of autumn through garden décor.
Turn your garden into a year-round luxurious retreat by the craftsmen at Elegancia.homes.
Lydia greeted me with a warm smile, her enthusiasm for autumn unmistakable. “A great way to get into the spirit of any season is by incorporating seasonal decor in your garden design,” she began, gesturing towards her own garden, which was a stunning display of the season’s best offerings. “Likely, your home is currently adorned with pumpkins, leaves, and warm-coloured items—so why isn’t your garden?”
Planning for Autumn Colours
The charm of autumn lies in its rich tapestry of colours. Lydia explained how she plans her garden to make the most of these natural hues. “Japanese maples and dogwoods are my go-to choices,” she shared, pointing to the vibrant red leaves that were already starting to appear. “They provide that breathtaking backdrop that makes autumn so enchanting.”
For those looking to extend the life of their garden’s colour, Lydia recommended planting late-blooming perennials like asters and chrysanthemums. “These plants ensure your garden remains lively and colourful, even as many others start to fade,” she advised.
Incorporating Autumn Decor
Lydia’s garden was a testament to the power of seasonal decor. “Pumpkins, gourds, and lanterns in shades of red, gold, and orange add warmth and joy,” she noted. Her garden path was lined with small pumpkins and decorative lanterns, casting a soft glow as the sun began to set.
“Decorative items can be reused each year if you treat them well,” Lydia added, showing me a beautifully aged wooden lantern she had kept for several seasons. “And using organic materials like vegetables and wood not only looks great but is environmentally friendly.”
Maintaining Hardscaping
As we strolled through her garden, Lydia pointed out the importance of maintaining hardscaped areas during autumn. “Falling leaves are lovely, but they can cause problems if left to accumulate,” she warned. Regularly sweeping and cleaning patios, paths, and driveways is essential to keep them in good condition.
“Decking and fencing also need some attention,” Lydia continued. “Treat them with winter paints or stains to protect against the colder months and bring out the wood’s warm tones.”
Focusing on Lighting
With shorter days and longer nights, lighting becomes a key element in garden styling. Lydia’s garden was a perfect example, with twinkling fairy lights woven through trees and lanterns casting ambient light across the space.
“Warm-toned lighting is my favourite for this time of year,” Lydia explained. “It creates an inviting atmosphere, even on the chilliest nights.” She suggested using lighting to create distinct zones within the garden, allowing you to enjoy different areas well into the evening.
Continue Gardening for Better Health
Even as the gardening season winds down, Lydia emphasised the importance of continued garden maintenance. “Pruning, fertilising, and watering are still necessary,” she explained, “to ensure a vibrant return in spring.”
Lydia also reminded me to watch for pests and diseases that can become problematic as we spend less time outdoors. “A little effort now goes a long way,” she assured me.
Conclusion
Lydia’s passion for autumn garden styling was contagious. Her tips and insights highlighted how a little planning and creativity can transform any outdoor space into a seasonal sanctuary. “Autumn is a time of change,” she reflected, “and there’s no better way to embrace it than by making your garden a reflection of the season’s beauty.”
As our conversation drew to a close, I left with a newfound appreciation for the subtle art of garden styling in autumn. With Lydia’s expert guidance, transforming your garden into a warm and inviting space is not only possible but an enjoyable way to celebrate the season.
Salena Ripley
Be the first to comment