Autumn is one of the most beloved seasons for gardeners, and this year it comes with an extra blessing: rain. The combination of cooler temperatures and moisture breathes new life into every corner of the garden.
The Magic of Autumn Rain
Everything seems to come alive after a downpour. Grass turns a vibrant green, shrubs burst into flower, and trees take on an ethereal quality. Their trunks become sleek and shiny, shimmering in the rain. Parks and gardens transform into magical oases, offering a sanctuary of peace and a testament to nature's resilience.
The best time to walk in a forest or bushland is during or just after rainfall, when water revitalises every living organism. If you pause to observe, you can almost feel yourself breathing in that life force.
Nature's Power to Rejuvenate
In challenging times, nature has the power to rejuvenate both body and mind. Sit outside and engage in passive observation—allow yourself to be immersed in sensory experiences without doing anything active. Focus on listening: identify the birds in your garden and notice how their songs differ. Look closely at flower shapes and colours, and wonder which pollinators they attract. Consider the complex ecological interactions happening in that small space.
Spending time in nature, simply watching and listening, encourages cognitive rest and enhances our sense of control and order in life.
Creating Beauty and Purpose
Gardens offer us the chance to create beauty and purpose. Autumn is an ideal time to refresh areas that don't bring you joy or lack biodiversity. Use this opportunity to enhance sustainability, attract beneficial insects, and create nesting sites. Group shrubs that grow 2–3 metres high and wide to attract smaller bird species, and plant taller trees for larger birds. Provide a safe haven for the many species that will care for your garden at no charge, giving you a reason to look forward to the next day.
Tip of the Week
As Monty Don said, “A garden is not a place, it’s a journey.” It’s a journey taken by many species that walk alongside you and share the joy of being a gardener.
Three Jobs to Do Now
- Remove excess limes from overcrowded bunches for better quality fruit. Although you lose some limes, the ones that remain will be juicier and larger.
- Keep fertilising dahlia plants and spray for thrips that attack new growth and buds.
- Rejuvenate potting mix for all potted plants by blending new potting mix with compost and manure.
Do you have a question for Sabrina? To submit a question to Green With Envy, inside Saturday’s The West Australian, write to Ask Sabrina, GPO Box D162, Perth, 6001 or email home@wanews.com.au. Please include your full name and suburb. Due to the volume of questions, not all of them will be answered.
