For two fortunate travelers, October in Italy meant days filled with soaring temperatures, ancient landmarks, and the pure delight of outdoor swimming in the midst of autumn. In the heart of this foreign land, daily early morning walks took on a significance that transcended mere exercise. They offered a profound connection with the unfamiliar surroundings.
These strolls revealed both the grandeur and the subtleties of Italy. The nearby mountains provided a majestic backdrop, olive trees stood in neat rows on the lower hills, and sweeping vistas unfolded, featuring a charming town and cultivated fields. European robins serenaded with sweet melodies, identified by a trusty Merlin app, and vibrant wildflowers adorned the lanes.
One of the enchanting surprises was the discovery of flowers akin to those commonly found in Pennsylvania. Common chicory, known as Cichorium intybus, butter-and-eggs or yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris), yellow fleabane (Dittrichia viscosa), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), various purple and yellow asters, a creeping morning glory, white campion (Silene latifolia), and even dandelions were among the blossoms encountered. Pyracantha, with its branches laden with yellow-orange fruits, added to the vibrant floral tapestry.
Upon reflection, it became evident that the presence of these familiar plants in Italy was not so surprising. Many of the wildflowers commonly seen in Pennsylvania are native to Europe and were brought to the shores of North America by immigrants, explorers, horticulturalists, and botanists. Nevertheless, the presence of these “home” representatives was a delightful and heartwarming welcome in a new environment. The biggest surprise, however, was the sighting of pokeweed (Phytolacca americana), native to eastern North America, extending its presence across the Atlantic, revealing a weedy, non-specimen plant as evidence of a plant exchange.
During the first part of their journey, the travelers ventured from Rome to the Naples area, where they explored the ruins of the ancient seaside resort town of Herculaneum. There, they encountered Rosemary, native to coastal Mediterranean regions, growing in voluminous, shrubby mounds. The fragrance emanating from the sun-warmed foliage was alluring.
Returning home, they were greeted by chilly weather and trees gradually donning their autumn attire. Surprisingly, the potted plants on the patio continued to bloom, creating an almost-summer-like atmosphere. Despite minimal vegetable planting during the year, cherry tomatoes continued to blossom and bear fruits on the vines.
This abrupt transition from the false summer experienced abroad to the undeniable arrival of autumn was accompanied by a reminder of the fall tasks awaiting attention. While global warming and climate change have influenced seasonal shifts, the first frost date in their area remains consistent around October 20th. To prolong the tomato harvest, they will need to protect the plants on frosty nights.
As they return to the rhythm of their home garden, they are reminded that first and last frost dates are mere guidelines, and the unpredictable nature of nature always retains an element of surprise.
