The cold seems to have arrived a little early this year - for the south, at least. We're just into the second November week and the heating is on (though I try and put the fire on as much as possible). The night's are plummeting in temperature too. BUT, whilst northern parts of the UK might have encountered deadly frosts already, so far, I've escaped. And it means there's still plenty of colour and interest outside.

Outside of the homestead, my main job is actually working as a gardener. There have been many years when I've been gardening right up until the week before Christmas. I have the feeling that won't happen this year - though I'm stretching it out for as long as possible because as soon as I stop work, the money stops too!

So, with the frosts not yet having hit, here's a photo-tour around my small patch of Earth.

The Alpine Garden

I really love alpines, and I rescued two old and cracked Butler's sinks to make tiny rock gardens in. Though most of the alpines have receded for the year, some of the hardy succulents (namely sempervivums or 'house leeks') still look great and give some architectural interest.

Seeds and Berries

Autumn is also the time of year that is SO much loved not only for leaf colour, but all those berries too. Here, I must admit, I haven't gardened for autumn colour. But there are still a few beauties catching my eye.

Black agapanthus seeds sit within papery sleeves. I always leave the dead flowerheads on for winter interest.

Two little olive trees I bought from IKEA for £10 each have done remarkably well. One day I MUST pick the cure some of these olives.

The vibrant orange of passion flower seedpods hang against my white shed.

Flowers

And, of course, there are flowers. Now, this is a time of sedums and rudbekias, echinacea and fading Japanese anemone's. Alas, I've been poor in bringing together a combination of these plants, though that gives me an excuse to shop this winter. However, I do have a few plants still in flower.

Dahlia's take centre stage in this shady corner - Bishop of Llandaff

A single echinacea flowers appears on my tiny plant.

I DO need to get some more autumnal flower plants in - namely rudbekias, asters and echinacea to make a real impact during this turning season. But, for now, I'm happy with my lot. :D

Thanks for reading,
Geoff

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