The sunny days are continuing to shorten as we approach the winter solstice. Dry conditions prevail but since the nights are much cooler the plants need less water so they are actually faring much better.
I have been able to complete many more gardening tasks once the watering is done each day. It takes a lot less time to water. I have been busy propagating some perennials, removing annuals as the time of frost approaches and preparing the tender plants that will be moved to places of shelter.
I will be joining the Six on Saturday crowd this week. Look for us here at this link https://gardenruminations.co.uk


This helianthus is spectacular this fall after looking quite puny in the heat of August and September.
The Rudbeckia is a winner. I will be looking for more locations for this celebrity.


This mum is ‘Peachy Pink’ I think. It is putting on quite a show in the bright sunlight.
The Roselle is also a winner for me. It is annual so I will log it as a must seed start for next year.


The zinnias are such a pleaser and not just for me. The monarch butterflies have arrived on their journey south to the Gulf Coast and Mexico. They are seen here frequently.
The Confederate Rose is Hibiscus mutabilis. The blooms turn from white to pink. It indicates to pollinators that this flower has been pollinated so move on.
I hope you are enjoying mild weather that lets you enjoy your garden.
Happy Gardening!!
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It must be special seeing the Monarchs migrating in numbers. Glad you still have some blooms for them. The Zinnias last really well and still look good even in cooler weather. Sadly mine did not tolerate even a light frost. I hadn’t heard of Roselle before, so must look that one up.
The monarchs have garnered a great deal of attention because of their celebrated migration. It is an incredible journey. It mimics the journey of the hummingbirds. Such tiny creatures and such an immense journey.
Roselle is new to me too. It is a beautiful plant. It can be used to make a tea but for me, it is the display.
Getting chilly here too, we dipped to 5 C or 41 F last night. I must check some of the pots that might get caught by the frost.
I find that as my garden matures, I am getting more monarchs. They adored the NE asters that insisted on seeding everywhere. Rudbeckia has been on my wish list for a while.
Those Brown Eyed Susans look good with or without their petals.
You have very pretty results! And you’re making me want some roselle. I think I’ll take out a quantity I have in the freezer to make a herbal tea tonight! (it freezes and keeps very well)