The End of Indian Summer

We have had a glorious Indian Summer this Fall with a string of warm, sunny days and spectacular foliage displays.

With the weather forecasts predicting the end of this unseasonable spell, Sue and I decided to visit the Botanic Gardens today.  

What a great day we had. Neither of us remember visiting the Botanic Garden this time of the year before.

But, of course, most years we would have had a killing frost or even a snow storm by now. As we arrived at the Garden, the school children were leaving, so we had the garden to ourselves much of the time. 

We had a lovely al fresco lunch and then began our stroll around the Garden. As in all seasons, every turn brings a new revelation or a struttingly, beautiful vista. The water lilies had been removed from the large central pond--earlier in the season we had talked with a gardener who told us that many of the water lilies are replanted each year--sometimes with root stocks that the DBG grow, but more often purchased from specialty suppliers.

The colors throughout the Garden were clearly autumnal--but with the sunlight, playing on the foliage, it was an inspiring but relaxing and peaceful interlude. We took a lot of pictures and  wanted to share; our photos certainly don't live up to the actual experience, but they do give a glimpse. 

Some things have died back, getting ready for the winter, but other plants such as the dahlias, hydrangeas, and roses were putting on a last, spectacular show.

We hope you are having a good fall; and if you get a chance, take some time to enjoy the gifts of Nature this time of year.  It makes you glad to be alive.