Day 169

Saturday 05 September

September is certainly a time of movement and change.

Just a matter of weeks ago this tree was full of leaves and the field behind was golden with barley. The lush green ferns flanked it on either side.

The trees around us are really showing signs of summer ending and autumn starting. They change their appearance which, in turn, changes the whole look and feel of the countryside around them.

One tree loses its leaves, and it stands out. But if they all start shedding, the whole landscape is affected. It sounds obvious but appreciating how everything is interdependent on everything else is an important part of connecting with the locality we live in.

The trees lose interest in their leaves but they exchange them for berries and fruits. The birds used the leaves as protection for their nests and their young but now need to feed well to prepare for the harsher months ahead.

Crab apples (Malus sylvestris). Tradition links these to love and marriage. Birds and mammals eat them and disperse the seed.

Bright reds and greens shock the drab background as the muddy colours of autumn take over. The fruit baubles stand out against the grey skies.

The birds leave our gardens and make use of natures harvest as many prepare to migrate south. Those not partial to what grows on trees and bushes feed on moths and other invertebrates that are also in abundance at this time of year.

Everything connected to one another, all relying on each other to do their thing at the right time each year.

Leave a comment