There’s nothing quite like October in Highlands. The air turns crisp, the leaves start showing off, and the whole town is energized as we have our last hurrah before winter and the holidays set in.
Whether you’re a full-time gardener or just up here for a weekend escape, this is one of the best times to stop and take in what’s happening outside.
While the big views from places like Sunset Rock or Whiteside Mountain get lots of attention, there’s a whole world of fall beauty happening right under our noses. The native plants around here are putting on a quiet but gorgeous show.
You don’t need to go far to find color. Sourwood trees are among the first to turn, a deep red that stands out even when everything else is still green. Red maples blaze in reds and oranges, and dogwoods and blackgums add their own shades of wine and plum.
Even just walking through town or the Botanical Gardens at the Highlands Biological Station, you’ll see these trees showing off. They’re not just pretty—they’re a big part of what makes this place feel so special in fall.
You’d think by October most flowers would be done, but a few native ones are just hitting their stride. Goldenrod and asters are still blooming along roadsides and trails. They give the bees and butterflies one last snack before the season ends. There’s also ironweed, tall, purple, and kind of wild-looking. It’s not something you’ll find in most tidy gardens, but it belongs here and looks amazing.
It’s not all about trees and flowers. Some shrubs and groundcovers are putting in work. Wild blueberries turn brilliant red in fall. Fothergilla’s leaves can go yellow, orange, and red—sometimes all on one plant. Down lower, keep an eye out for foamflower. It’s subtle but beautiful.
If you’re in town and want to see these plants up close, the Highlands Botanical Garden is a great place for a walk. Everything there is native and labeled, which is helpful if you’re thinking about adding a few things to your own garden. The Highlands Mountain Garden Club has done a restoration of the Historic
Jail Garden using many native plants. It’s a work in progress but worth a stroll.
Planting natives isn’t just about looks—it helps support the birds, bees, and other critters that call this place home. Plus, they tend to be lower maintenance.
October in the mountains goes by fast. One day it’s all glowing gold and scarlet, and the next the leaves are on the ground and we’re reaching for wool socks.
So take a walk, snap some pictures, and maybe sit on the porch with a warm drink and just enjoy it.
Happy Gardening!
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