Sarina Rattler: Neglected
Published on Saturday, August 24, 2024, 00:00
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Weeping cherries signal that autumn is approaching
Winter berries Holly berries begin to change color
Goldenrod ‘Fireworks’ first flowers
The leaves and seeds of the Hearts-A-Busting shrub begin to change color.
By Sarina Rattler
The cooler mornings this week have been a stark reminder that fall is upon us. One of the first signs of the change of season are the serviceberry trees. These trees awaken quickly in the spring and lose their leaves just as quickly as fall approaches. In fact, many of them have already lost their leaves for the year. That is one of my most hopeful signs on the damp, dreary days of late summer. Another harbinger of fall are the weeping cherries in the Parrot Ornamental Fruit Orchard. They do not pass away as quietly as the serviceberry trees, leaving the ground littered with their signs of surrender to the change of season.
Another hopeful sign of the impending onset of fall is the abundance of seeds and berries. If you are a bird watcher, this also means the imminent arrival of migratory birds. Some of the most notable berries this early in the season are the various hollies and the heart-shaped shrubs. In the sunnier areas, the berries of these shrubs are beginning to change color. Some black-eyed Susans are still flowering, while others have already set seeds. These seeds seem to be very popular with the goldfinches that visit Hurley Park. Their cheerful chirping and bright yellow feathers are a joyful reminder of the changing tide of the season.
Although the leaves are falling and the plants are going to seed, there are still plenty of floral beauties to enjoy. This week I noticed the first goldenrods blooming in the Fuller Perennial Garden. The ‘Fireworks’ variety in particular is known for its impressive blooms. On the ground, the spider lily buds are just beginning to sprout and in a few weeks we will be treated to the purple and white hues of asters all over the park.
With the onset of fall, there is much to admire in our local parks. Whether it’s the unique seed pods or the late blooms, this time of year offers a picturesque start to the end of the year.
For updates on Hurley Park, follow us on Facebook or Instagram @HurleyParkNC. You can also donate to Hurley Park. by visiting our website at salisburync.gov/hurleypark. If If you have any further questions or would like to book the park for an event, please call us at 704-638-5298.
Sarina Rattler is the public gardens manager at Salisbury Parks and Rec.
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