Overview

• Late-September showers eased the threat of a widespread “false autumn,” restoring a more typical seasonal progression.
• National Trust gardeners report exceptional local crops, including the largest acorn haul at Dunham Massey and the best berry season in years at Rowallane.
• The charity expects extended displays of reds and yellows through mid to late October at many sites, with notable flushes of fungi.
• Most National Trust properties escaped significant damage from Storm Amy, according to the organisation.
• While abundant mast will aid wildlife, the NFU reports some farms suffered yield losses from water shortages, highlighting growing climate volatility that complicates forecasts.