The precise beginning of autumn isn't as straightforward as one might assume

In the world of gardening, autumn is a period of transition, a time for tidying up, preparing for the first frosts, and planting spring bulbs. Unlike the meteorological definition, the first day of autumn in gardening terms is not defined by a specific date but rather by the changing weather conditions, specifically the average nighttime temperature.

As August comes to an end, we begin to notice the subtle signs of autumn creeping in. September, often considered early autumn, marks the beginning of this change. October, with its crisp mornings and vibrant colours, is mid-autumn, while November, with its first frosts and bare trees, is late autumn.

For those curious about the start of autumn, it's important to understand that there are two other distinct definitions: the meteorological and the astronomical. The meteorological autumn, which starts on the 1st of September and ends on the 31st of November, is determined by different factors not specified in this article.

On the other hand, the astronomical definition of autumn is more straightforward. The first day of autumn, according to this calendar, is marked by the autumn equinox. This year, the autumn equinox will take place on September 22, 2024. The autumn equinox occurs when the sun is directly above the Equator, resulting in approximately equal day and night lengths worldwide.

In the UK, the first day of autumn according to the astronomical calendar in 2024 is September 22. However, it's worth noting that the first official day of autumn in the UK in 2024 is not specified in the provided text.

For those interested in the phenological approach, the start of autumn can be defined by changes to the plants in our gardens. As the leaves begin to change colour and fall, and as the days grow shorter and the nights grow colder, it's a clear sign that autumn is upon us.

For more information about the best autumn flowers, autumn gardens to visit, and spring bulbs to plant in autumn, please refer to additional resources. Many gardeners are asking these questions, and there's a wealth of information available to help you make the most of this beautiful season.