Like most of the UK, we are 'enjoying' a heatwave. (I realise that our temperatures are tame compared to other parts of the world, but they are unusual for the UK). There hasn't been any significant rain for a month here. I am not enjoying it at all. I am not sleeping well and I'm finding it all a bit oppressive.
We are supposed to be getting thunderstorms tomorrow night with the possibility of flash flooding.
Animals and plants are also suffering without the rain (which I realise that I take for granted so much - perhaps a little less now).
However, there have been some nice photo opportunities.
My agapanthus Navy Blue is flowering earlier than usual...
(with a helpful bee)...
...as is the hibiscus (usually in August).
Conversely, this foxglove is later than usual.
The insects seem to be enjoying all the flowers. Here is a bee on the verbena bonariensis.
Butterflies on the buddleia...
...and more...
...and more.
Here's a hydrangea I forgot in my hydrangea round up post - this is 'Fireworks'.
I think I said this hydrangea was Diamont Rouge. However, it isn't, it is actually Vanille Sundae.
Always one to state the obvious, this
song seems to sum up the UK at the moment...All together now "Feelin' hot, hot, hot!"
I hope you get some cool relief (and rain) soon. We are cool at the moment but very, very dry. And the garden is suffering (water restrictions limit what I can do to help).
ReplyDeleteThanks, EC. We have had some thunderstorms and a bit of rain (but not enough to make any difference for farmers and growers). It is hot again now, but the weekend is supposed to be cooler and then the heat will be back next week. Roll on Autumn!
DeleteSorry to hear your garden is suffering and I hope that you get a useful amount of rain soon.
Best wishes
Ellie
Beautiful flowers and colours, we are now in the tinder dry months where little flowers as they conserve energy which is a shame xcx
ReplyDeleteThanks, Chrissie. We're just not used to this constant heat but it is a little cooler at the moment which is lovely. We have also had some much needed rain too.
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie
I have just planted Verben Bonariensis this year and am hoping that it will attract the bees etc next year.
ReplyDeleteBriony
x
Thanks, Briony. It is a beautiful airy plant and much loved by insects. Mine has come through the winter and this is its second year, but I think it is supposed to be a short lived perennial. I shall be sowing more next year.
DeleteBest wishes
Ellie