Springtime in my Garden

The arrival of spring in the Blue Mountains can be a hesitant affair. The week before the season officially began, there had been wild winds and snowfall. Rapid drops in temperature continued throughout September with gradually warming days followed by frosty nights.

Warmer days were accompanied by a flush of colour as rhododendron trees popped with colour throughout the neighbourhood.

These flowers are popular with birds, including flocks of sulphur-crested cockatoos, as pictured above.

Hebe shrubs also come into their own in spring, with a range of blooms attracting bees and birds alike.

There are more birds around, too, as the days lengthen and grass begins to grow again after a dormant winter. Crimson rosellas particularly seem to enjoy foraging amongst the spring grass growth.

Each year, some of the sweetest blossoms are to be found on an old cherry tree. It is a joy to watch the blossoms take shape, then unfurl in a froth of white and pink petals. The petals scent the air, and eventually are scattered on spring breezes, falling like springtime snow.

What is flowering in your garden?

Photo: a bee enjoying the violets