The storm season has arrived and we are well into autumn with its short chilly days. We have already had a lot of rain and there is the promise of much more as the Atlantic gets into winter gear. It’s not much fun gardening in these conditions especially when the fog rolls in or the wind picks up.
But there is the odd day when we get some weak sunshine which, although low, manages to create pockets of light. A newly planted arum and the old stalwart rosemary fountain and carpet rose can still sunbathe for a while longer. And the delightful campanulas and primroses on the corner of the west garden have already burst into life, about twelve weeks early.
The big end of season clear out has started and while the look of autumn is emerging, there have been surprises. We found these heathers buried under the summer’s prolific growth and self-seeded sedums have popped out to give some rustic colour amongst the last of the season’s trailing roses. Meanwhile, the hydrangeas have faded and are going over.
The hedgehog and cat have gone AWOL but along the coast there have been sightings of blue fin tuna and fin whales, both off course by many miles. The excitement has been enhanced recently when dolphins were spotted too. It’s all been a distraction from the task of finishing my novel but there has been progress, including searching for a title.
Old Lady by the Sea 