Oh dear, the crocosmia is out.

The Crocosmia (Lucifer) has been out for a couple of weeks and even the old fashioned ones (formerly known as Mombretia) are in flower. For me that signals the end of summer and time for the schools to go back. It always has been associated with a late Summer tristesse that recognises the days are getting shorter.

I don't like the long dark days of winter so like my forebears I start squirreling away produce to see me through. Yesterday I made cucumber relish and courgette and apple chutney.