Head Gardener's Notes: Autumn 2025

As September arrives, the gardens begin their slow shift into autumn, though the weather may suggest otherwise. Following the hottest summer on record in the UK, with persistent warmth, high overnight temperatures, and a sustained rainfall deficit, the landscape is showing signs of stress and adaptation. The mornings are misty and web-strewn, yet the afternoons still bask in sunshine and warmth—conditions that are expected to continue well into October. 

Apples and Orchard Management 

The apple trees in the Orchard, Jubilee Walk, and Coronation Walk have responded vigorously to the summer heat. Fruit is ripening quickly, and our team will be busy collecting apples for use in our catering operations. 

Visitors are welcome to help themselves to windfalls, but we kindly ask that apples still on the trees be left for staff to harvest. Picking directly from the trees can cause damage that affects future yields. 

Yew Hedge Cutting and Topiary Care 

Our iconic mile-long yew hedges are due their annual trim. This meticulous process involves careful levelling with guiding ropes, followed by cutting both sides and the top—amounting to nearly 3 miles of trimming. It takes 6–8 weeks and a great deal of upper arm strength from our dedicated team. 

Other topiary features, including the Porcupine, Bear, and shaped hedges in the Magnolia, Italian, and Demi Lune Gardens, will also be trimmed in preparation for the cooler months. 

Plant Division and Border Maintenance 

With the soil still warm and workable, we’re dividing the herbaceous borders to prevent ring-shaped growth and central gaps. This ensures full, vibrant beds next spring and is a great task for home gardeners to tackle now. 

We’re also scheduling major maintenance tasks—including dead tree removal and tree surgery—during the quieter season.

Tony Wiseman, Head Gardener

September 2025