Autumn is gradually sneaking up on us but there’s still bucketloads to see and do at Nymans. Our exotic collections, including the South African, Mediterranean and terrace beds are continuing to blaze with colour and all too soon the trees will be putting on a spectacular autumn show, not to mention the blackberries waiting to be picked in Nymans’ woods.

Bird nesting season is over, so it’s time to get the shears out and start pruning evergreen hedges. This can be done with hedge shears but if you have quite large hedges like we do here, it’s much easier to use a hedge trimmer. The top of the hedge should be narrower than the base, this will prevent the hedges flopping open under the weight of the winter snows and ensures the bottom of the hedge receives sufficient light for healthy growth.

September is also the time to start planting again. The ground is still warm and the increased rain-fall means it’s the perfect time for planting trees, shrubs and perennials. It’s also a good idea to start choosing your spring-flowering bulbs for planting a little later in the season. Daffodils, iris, narcissi and tulips are all good choices for a splash of colour throughout the garden in spring.

Though the days are getting shorter and a little cooler, be sure to keep on top of garden maintenance. Weeding, hoeing and mulching can still be done at this time of year and a bit of extra care and attention now means it will save you work in the spring and keep the garden looking smart throughout the winter.

Nymans still has lots of wonderful events to take part in, from seed collecting workshops to family activity weekends. We’re also delighted to announce that on Saturday, September 14, we are having a Heritage Open Day. Entry is free and – very excitingly – the rarely seen interiors of the former house (now a ruin) will be open, as well as the beautiful dovecote, which is large enough to explore.

  • Nymans, Handcross, nr Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 6EB, Tel: 01444 405250, www.national trust.org.uk/nymans
  • Gardens, woods, restaurant, shop and plant centre open every day (except Dec 25). House open every day from Mar 1 to Oct 31