Autumnal Textures over Perennial Colour

My trial gardens in Amsterdam have teetered on the edge of chaos this year as a result of moving house.

Weeds are under control and wayward growth ruthlessly chopped down, but I long for a clean sweep and the fresh growing season in 2015.

Although colour is everywhere in the garden this autumn from bright yellows, hard reds, glowing oranges and rich browns, it is the textures of the plants that really stands out and dominates.

The sense of being overwhelmed by burgeoning vegetation has been emphasised by the tangle that encroaches upon every path and impedes perambulation; frustration is my first feeling, but quickly followed by admiration at the sheer force of growth well chosen perennials can bring to a garden’s dynamic.

Next spring they will have vanished, the borders will be cleared and low, but not for long I hope.