Autumn is well on its merry way now as we move into September tomorrow.

The garden is still looking pretty amazing with lots of interesting hydrangeas putting on a real show here at Driftwood. Across the garden, I have several varieties, but two looking good this week are Red Baron and paniculata Limelight! The former produces rosy red flowers in mophead form which are produced in abundance on this very easy to grow hydrangea. The blooms slowly fade to a deeper, more subtle shade of red, as they mature during the season, extending this hardy shrub’s interest right through into the autumn. Its compact growing habit means ‘Red Baron’ can also be grown in containers on the patio, as well as being included in a shrub border. It prefers a sunny or semi-shaded position, with shelter from cold, drying winds.

Hydrangea paniculata Limelight will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects and has huge, conical blooms which open in a soft shade of pea green, and then gradually mature through shades of cream to a delicate soft pink. It is quite a sight, particularly when flowers are at different stages of colour and maturity, giving a three-toned effect. The magnificent blooms provide exceptional late summer colour in woodland gardens and mixed borders before the vibrant autumn foliage takes centre stage. It is a fabulous specimen shrub for a prime position too. The flowers are held upright on sturdy stems and the flowerheads are quite large, and range between 15-30cms long. They are ideal for using in cut flower displays, both fresh and dried.

Grow hydrangea plants in any rich fertile, moist soil. You can improve the soil prior to planting by adding plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost, ensuring it is mixed thoroughly and deeply. Alternatively, plant hydrangea macrophylla in patio containers.

Why not pop up to East Grinstead tomorrow, Sunday, and see the trail of three gardens opening for the National Garden Scheme from 1pm to 5pm, with a combined entry of £6. 5 Nightingale Close occupies a corner plot and is beautifully landscaped on two levels with wonderful and colourful planting around a naturalistic Koi pond, rose and herbaceous beds, and topiary trees, while 7 Nightingale Avenue contains a fabulous display of roses and gorgeous romantic planting leading down to a stream. Finally, 35 Blount Avenue is the place where contemporary design meets colourful and exuberant planting in this south facing town garden. See colour-themed large borders, tropical planting and areas of colour on show. Dahlias, roses and a variety of interesting perennials feature in the front garden packed with colour. Plant sales can be found at both 35 Blount Avenue and 7 Nightingale Close.

Malthouse Farm in Streat Lane, Streat, Hassocks also opens tomorrow from 2pm to 5.30 pm with entry £7. This rural, 5-acre garden has stunning views to the South Downs and is divided into separate rooms. The orchard has newly planted wildflowers, leading to partitioned areas with grass walks, a snail mound and birch maze. Full details on all gardens at www.ngs.org.uk

Lysimachia vulgaris or yellow loosestrife is a perennial wildflower, with hairy green leaves and clusters of bright yellow summer flowers. I have several small clumps growing in containers in the back garden. Despite having similar common names, yellow loosestrife is not closely related to purple loosestrife. The name “Loosestrife” literally means to “lose strife”. Plants in the genus are said to have calming properties, and are named after King Lysimachus, the King of Macedonia, who fed ‘loosestrife’ plants to his cows when they became agitated. Loosetrife were also hung around the necks of cows to deter flying insects, and were also brought into homes and burned to get rid of infestations of flies. Today, yellow loosestrife is an excellent wildlife plant and looks great in the garden at this time of the year!

Read more of Geoff’s garden HERE and at www.driftwoodbysea.co.uk

The corten steel pond at Driftwood is a real scene setter and always stands out amongst the varied planting around it. The mix of buddleja and gunnera behind it creates a great look, as you can see behind me in the main image.

Another set piece at Driftwood, is the fireplace area, at the top of the garden, created from an old metal fireplace, picked up in a reclamation yard a couple of years ago. In front is an old rusty grate planted up with trailing geraniums, a couple of small pots with agave Americana sit on the mantle and a couple of old metal drain pipe sections are planted up with geraniums and sit on the fence above the fireplace.

The scene is finished off with a couple of large pots containing shrubs and a metal bicycle planter filled with geraniums.