Just as the dampness of the short days creeps into our bodies so does the fabric of the plant world slowly decay.
These images of seed pods illustrate the gradual breakdown of the cellulose layers and then the tougher lignin decays to release the seeds held within.
The brightly coloured Physalis alkekengi lanterns are in high demand as seasonal decorations.
The silvery, paper thin elongated pods of Lunaria rediviva are equally as valued for decoration in the home. However, left alone they both provide colour in the border as winter arrives. Grow in sun or semi shade in well drained soil.