The Flower Farm in Autumn: Why Rest Matters
Whilst there are still flowers on the farm, the vibrant summer blooms are fading fast - but the farm is far from dormant. Autumn is a quieter, reflective season, a time for the soil to rest, for bulbs to be planted, and for us to prepare for the flowers of next year. At Carisbrooke Flower Farm, we see this season as a vital part of the growth cycle, not just a pause between blooms.
The Cycle of the Farm
Flower farming isn’t just about what you see above ground. After a busy summer of vibrant blooms, fabulous workshops and beautiful weddings, I turn my attention to the soil. The beds are cleared of faded flowers and a layer of coffee grounds is added for nutrients (my coffee grounds are kindly supplied by Wadhams Cafe in Newport). This rest period might seem quiet, but it’s when the farm really lays the foundation for a beautiful spring and summer.
“Autumn reminds me that growth isn’t always visible, even when the beds look empty, life is happening beneath the soil.”
Planting for Spring
Autumn is also bulb season. Planting now ensures that when spring arrives, we’ll be greeted with daffodils, tulips, and all the colours we’ve been dreaming of. It’s a little like setting the stage for a show - all the preparation happens behind the scenes so the performance in spring is spectacular.
For home gardeners, planting bulbs in autumn is equally rewarding. Even a few pots on a windowsill or in the garden can bring a burst of colour and joy after the darker winter months.
Seasonal Beauty Beyond Blooms
While the vibrant summer flowers have mostly finished, there’s still plenty of seasonal beauty to enjoy. Seed heads, grasses, foliage and berries add texture, colour, and interest to autumn bouquets, plus the flowers I’ve set aside to dry are now ready to be used. They’re perfect for creating simple arrangements at home, bringing the mood of the farm into your living space even after the main flowering season has ended.
Tip: Mix these natural elements with the last of your summer flowers to create arrangements that feel rich, textured, and very “now.”
Autumn is a season of rest, reflection, and preparation, and it’s just as important as the busy, colourful months of summer. At Carisbrooke Flower Farm, I embrace this slower rhythm and use it to nurture the soil, plan for spring, and make sure the farm is ready for another season of beautiful blooms.
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