Baubles from the forest floor

Vibrant orange pumpkins, ready to be carved into lanterns for Halloween, are synonymous with October. However, along with fellow squashes and gourds, they are much more than just a seasonal decoration

Seasonal decorative touches to bring the outdoors in

Scoop up armfuls of seasonal fruits, foliage and flowers – from your local farm shop or garden – to create colourful displays and toasty treats

Foraging can help us stay tuned into the changing seasons, so follow our guide to picking with a light and mindful touch, and gather nature’s bounty at its source

FOR JOHN KEATS, AUTUMN WAS THE SEASON OF MISTS AND MELLOW FRUITFULNESS. HERE, THE COUNTRY LIVING TEAM AND FRIENDS HIGHLIGHT WHAT THIS TIME OF YEAR MEANS TO THEM – FROM CRAFTING WREATHS TO BOTTLING SLOE GIN

It may be September but there’s plenty of life in the garden yet!