Late bloomers

I know I probably sound like a broken record... but it's the middle of October and holy gardens batman! Yes, they are starting to wind down, but there's still a surprising amount of colour out there.

Out front those adorable little Toad Lilies have bloomed.

They are so small but just look at those speckles! I definitely need to get more next year.

The Strawberry Mango Smoothie Coneflower (boy, that's a mouthful) I bought this spring finally bloomed. It was considered a "designer" variety, and quite a bit more  expensive than my usual buys, but since I was using PC points, I splurged, and I'm glad I did. The Coneflowers really bring in the butterflies and this one is a nice unique addition.

The Iceland Poppies started using the Winter Sow method this year are still blooming. They've been such a consistent bloomer, and it's always a little extra thrill knowing you started them from seed.

And KathyB - this one is for you. I was so surprised when I looked out my window yesterday morning and saw the Lupin in bloom! It was a coin toss whether it would bloom this year or not and it was looking like it was going to be not. But I guess the gardens are just full of surprises.  These were started from seed too, so I'm extra proud.

And while insect activity in the backyard has definitely  dwindled - there's still a few industrious Bumblers grabbing what pollen they can. I'm glad my little gardens are a good source for them.