National Trust rangers and gardeners are preparing for a "mixed bag" of autumnal displays.

They believe the cool, wet conditions preceding the season have created uncertainty in the usual autumn spectacle across gardens, parklands, and woodlands in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Despite the wet spring and cooler-than-average summer, hopes are high for a vibrant display, as trees have managed to retain their leaves for longer.

The National Trust, however, is keeping a close eye on the weather, as the conditions could affect the autumn colours and seasonal delights.

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Pamela Smith, senior national consultant for gardens and parklands at the National Trust, said: "As the predictability of weather patterns continues to alter due to a changing climate, the timings of a traditional autumn with its colourful canopy displays become less certain.

"We’ve seen a real mixed bag of conditions so far this year – particularly the soggy start, but if we see a gradual drop in temperature along with more settled weather, we could expect to see a drawn-out display.

"However, if we get sharp, hard frosts or see further wet weather with storms, heavy rain, and wind roll across the UK, that may cut any extended show short."

The unpredictable weather is also affecting traditional autumn vegetable harvests.

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The conditions have been concerning for the management of woods and ancient trees, with the threat of damage from storms heightened by the trees holding onto their leaves for longer.

Luke Barley, senior national consultant for trees and woodland, said: "In our management of both woods and ancient trees, we are worried about the impact of experiencing more storms when the trees are in leaf and catch the wind more, potentially causing more damage than these important habitats and trees can sustain."

Despite the challenges, the National Trust remains optimistic about the autumn display.

Tim Parker, National Trust head gardener at Stourhead, Wiltshire, said: "My own predictions for Stourhead and more generally gardens in the South-West, is that this could be a strong year for autumn colour."

Mike Beeston, National Trust gardens and parks lead for the South West, added: "Whether it is a brief or long autumn, it usually delivers a kaleidoscope of colour, painting the landscape in red, orange and yellow tones."