This is reason number 1 why I’m reluctant to completely remove the asters from the garden…

And this is reason number 2

They are absolutely AMAZING when they start blooming.

They are just masses and masses of flowers. I’m really hoping doing a Chelsea chop next year makes them a little more manageable.

And these two aren’t the only asters I have.

I have this lovely bright magenta, as well as a more medium pink (but sadly don’t seem to have a picture of). Both of them were put in this year, so they aren’t as established as the other two – so they are being pretty well-behaved so far.

And… the asters aren’t the only flowers blooming in abundance.

That Cosmos in the island garden has just exploded with blooms.

Such beautiful blooms that will go right to the frost as long as I keep deadheading – which is easy enough to do as I stroll through my garden each day.

The only place I planted marigolds this year was in the veg beds.

And though the veg are mostly done, the marigolds are just spilling all over the place, keeping Edible Alley from looking like barren ground.

Of course, not all the veg are done.

The Cucamelons are absolutely THRIVING. They cover almost one 1/4 of the squash tunnel and are looking so green and vibrant.

And of course, providing plenty of little snacks too.

I thought the regular cucumbers were close done too – but I picked five good-sized cukes on Wednesday – and will probably be picking two or three more today. (No pics though because apparently I’ve been slacking.

Back on the flower front..

All the sedum is in full bloom and just a mass of tiny pink flowers. When we moved, I brought two small clusters from the townhouse and put them both in the catio. They are both HUGE now, and will need to split up next spring. For now, they are a favourite of the bees, and between them, and the Smooth Aster, the catio is literally buzzing with activity during the day.

Such industrious little creatures.

The Mums, of course, are in their prime. I’ve got one more, dark red one set to bloom.

I’ve gushed on and on about my Tickseed (Coreopsis), but this one I added early this year….

is just blowing my mind! I can’t recall the name, but it’s taller than all my other varieties, and could almost be mistaken for a False Sunflower. But just look at that amazing cascade of blooms!

It’s called Moonbeam, and while it’s quite as floriferous as the other one, it’s pale yellow flowers really stand out in the garden!

And of course, I treasure each new rose bloom I get.

Soon enough, the gardens will be sleeping and I’ll be dream of the plans for next year.