This morning, when I opened the kitchen door, autumn blew in. So much so, we decided on porridge for breakfast. When I stuck my nose out for the second time, I had to admit that it’s not actually cold outside, although  the wind can be sharp. Also, the grey sky and drizzle don’t do much to ease that end-of-summer-back-to-school feeling.

But then I spot the Morning Glories.

Today, all the seedling plantlets in the upstairs garden had decided to flower. I’d planted them out in June – among the runner beans, with the sweet peas, beside the miniature pear and apple trees, but they didn’t grow  during the hot, dry months. They’ve not grown much now, and some are flowering on the ground, but never mind. It’s fun spotting them. They seem so vital and vibrant when most of the showy flowers are done or winding down.

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There’s also a small constellation on show – a scatter of bright white pollen grains that seem to be luminous. Even the flower’s inner recesses appear to emit light; no sunshine required.

Copyright 2026 Tish Farrell