Ian Palmer

Prolonged dry spells and repeated heatwaves have caused trees and plants in Kent and Sussex to shed leaves and branches weeks earlier than expected, creating a so-called false autumn. Gardeners warn that continued drought could lead to branch dieback and long-term changes in what can be grown, although substantial rain in autumn and winter could allow many trees to recover. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends planting trees in autumn and watering new trees regularly during their first two years to improve their chances of surviving future heat and dry conditions.

Prolonged dry spells and repeated heatwaves have caused trees and plants across Kent and Sussex to shed leaves weeks earlier than usual, creating a so-called false autumn. Gardeners say the early leaf loss is a self-preservation response to water stress, but warn that continued hot, dry conditions could cause branch dieback and long-term declines in plant health. The Royal Horticultural Society recommends planting trees in autumn and watering newly planted specimens regularly, while gardeners say sufficient rain during autumn and winter could help affected trees recover next year.