The Gardens continue to take your breath away with their beauty. It’s been a spectacular summer after a very mild winter so things are thriving (this includes the insects). The character of the Gardens is changing however. Though it continues to be warm, fall is rearing its head. Carpe diem.

The serpentine beds in the distance complement the lighthouse on the island on Griffin’s pond.

The bog on the southwest side of the Gardens is a cool and tranquil haven on these hot days.

The colors of fall. Sigh!!!

The migrating birds will soon (well not too soon) be making a pit stop at the Gardens. There’s plenty of food on hand. The birds love the berries on Viburnums.

Let sleeping ducks lie. This fella was keeping a close eye on me in case I came too close.

No doubt, so was this fella. Thank you Betsy for sending in this (along with other) lovely photo of a butterfly feasting on the flowers at the Gardens.

Whoever invented the bird bath knew what they were doing… the birds actually love them and use them often.

This annual bed gets more interesting every time I see it. The Lantana standard has always caught people’s attention. Then the bright stalks of the swiss chard on the perimeter gave rise to admiration. Now the bird’s of paradise are blooming.

Speaking of exotic, the citrus tree has fruit on it. So do the lime trees, but no sign of fruit on the coffee, papaya or pomegranate plants.

Making wishes come true. The fountain at Horticultural Hall plaza is up and running and observing this time-honored tradition.

The Dahlia Festival begins on Tuesday and runs until Thursday. There are loads of Dahlia related events from growing tips to floral arrangement displays. If you can only make it one day, do it on Wednesday when Neville of My Mother’s Bloomers will be sharing his talents and making you laugh as he puts together spectacular Dahlia bouquets. For further information click here.