rambling on . . . friday flowers . . . the garden in September . . . five favourite photos . . . and goodbye to the swallows . . .

Sometimes, in a packet of bog-standard Cosmos seed, you get some little gems – like these white ones with a pink edge or the petals shaped like sea shells. Although the Cosmos don’t seem to be as prolific as in previous years (maybe they don’t appreciate the dry summer) they are still providing plenty of late-summer colour and make a nice change from the Rudbeckia and Zinnia I have been picking from the cutting patch.

The Japanese Anemones are now in full swing, I can’t remember the name of this variety, but I bought it last Autumn and kept it in a container as I had heard they would colonize the garden, but it has increased in size rapidly I may have to plant it out anyway – I think the silver buds are just as pretty as the flowers.

So many variations in a packet of Rustic Dwarf Rudbeckia seed.

And the California poppies just keep on doing what they do best, brightening up the veg plot.

I am still harvesting produce from the veg garden, although the runner beans have almost finished. Summer squash and courgettes are slowing down and the tomatoes are gradually ripening, but the big glossy leaves of the Chard keep coming – these were used in a stir-fry.

The James Grieve apple tree has plenty of ripe fruit but has been invaded by wasps who are attracted by its highly fragrant fruit. I have to sneak out in the early morning to pick them when the wasps are fairly quiet, I should think they have ruined at least half of the crop. Grrr.

The Swallows and House Martins have departed, they have been collecting on the telephone wires for a few days now. We didn’t think there seemed to be as many this year, but we counted at least a hundred, I love watching them performing their aerial ballet in the evenings normally, swooping and chattering all the while – I hate it when they leave. Bon Voyage, safe journey – hope to see you again next year.

Five favourite photos include a sunset

a sunrise

a charity shop find – I’m not much for wearing delicate jewellery – if I’m going to wear it then big and bold suits me just fine – this one goes perfectly with a chartreuse-coloured outfit.