In the last few days our garden has had a new visitor, a monster of a black tomcat. We have not seen it before but it saunters through like it definitely owns the space.

Sunday evening we were sitting out enjoying the late sunshine when we saw it disappear into the undergrowth near our water feature. It was a case of we could hear it but not see it apart from a black tail popping up now and then. Of course I had to investigate. I could see it underneath the magnolia and ferns and looked like it was playing with something and I assumed it had found a mouse.

Suddenly a large frog bounced out right at my feet followed shortly by the cat. I managed to get myself between frog and cat and the cat fortunately could not see it or find it. Before I could pick it up and luckily while the cat had its back turned the frog leapt into the undergrowth. The cat sauntered underneath the magnolia once more with tail swishing in annoyance but whether it continued its search I cannot say.

At last the tomatoes are starting to ripen. Not surprising really with the really hot temperatures this last week. Keeping the greenhouse cool and inhabitants with enough water is the challenge now.

Suddenly with the warmer weather my Californian Poppies are starting to do their thing, very nice they are too.

Also providing very good value for money are the petunias that I grew this year from seed. Baskets, bowls and containers are looking good.

My resolution this year was not to buy plants, only grow from seed or cutting. This week my resolve slipped and I bought a dahlia that I knew was right for a certain spot and is magnificent. I guess I am allowed one little slip!

Container Gardening and Planters are not just for Christmas