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Shrubs

Shrubs and trees are best planted in autumn and winter, giving them time to put down roots so they’re ready to cope with warmer weather. That said, avoid planting in very wet conditions or if there has been a frost and the ground is hard. All varieties mentioned here will introduce a splash of autumn colour in the first year, but you’ll have to wait a couple of years for more impressive displays.

CALLICARPA BODINIERI var giraldi ‘Profusion’

This medium-sized, deciduous shrub answers the brief when it comes to producing autumn colour, as clusters of metallic-violet berries remain on its branches long after it has dropped its leaves. Though it may be a little on the gaudy side for some, don’t dismiss it too quickly because it is easy to care for. It’s also a useful addition to a cut-flower garden. If you have the space, pop it in a sunny border, in well-drained soil, and embrace the colour.

EUONYMUS ALATUS

Otherwise known as the burning bush, this deciduous shrub (pictured left) produces the most vivid scarlet leaves in the autumn, along with reddish-purple fruits, which split open to reveal orange seed capsules. Try growing it in a front garden or near the kitchen door, where you can really appreciate the display.

Make sure it has a sunny spot and moist, well-draining soil to produce the best displays. It is easy to care for: prune out damaged, dead or crossing branches in late winter and mulch annually with well-rotted manure or compost.

HYDRANGEA QUERCIFOLIA

The dark green, oak-shaped leaves of this lovely shrub (pictured left) mature to shades of bronze, orange and reddish-purple in autumn. It also produces beautiful flowers that fade to pale pink and a delicate brown. Leave the ethereal, sculptural blooms on the shrub over winter as they add a bit of interest to the garden. Happy growing in either full sun or partial shade, Hydrangea quercifolia needs moist but well-draining soil.

GARDENING

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2022-10-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-10-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

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Daily Telegraph