Rocket Barberry, Fall 2020
So, how much was fall color really delayed this year? Here are three views of my garden, each taken a year apart. See what you think.
To compare photos, slide the arrows left and right.
Pretty dramatic, don’t you think?
If you keep a gardening diary, I’m sure you have similar pictures of your own space. If not, you might want to consider documenting the changes. It’s always a good idea to photograph your garden each year. Photos are really helpful when those spring catalogs arrive, and you’re trying to recall where there’s room for more plants.
Last fall’s color show was spectacular, fortunately, and I savored the rich, saturated tones in all their fleeting glory. This year, it depends on where you live and which trees and shrubs you have. Here in my garden, this year’s colors have been disappointing so far, as the above photos attest. But many trees and euonymous around the neighborhood are holding their color (and leaves) really well.
We can only hope that next year, the admittedly challenging odds will favor us with a cooler autumn. It may be wishful thinking, but we need to stay optimistic. While we wait to see what Winter has in store, I’ll look to evergreens and grasses to carry me through chillier days ahead. Beyond the snows, surely the hellebores won’t disappoint, and the crocuses await!
