Killing Frost

Our First heavy killing frost finally came last night or early this morning. The giant Poinsettia, which has been sitting on the patio, waiting unknowingly for its death by ice finally met its end. The plant I have been nursing along for years had outgrown at least 4 pots since it came home for Christmas 4 or 5 years ago. But times change and a new puppy meant the potential for nasty blisters in mouth and throat had to give way.

When I took Duncan outside, to let some of his puppy energy run out in frantic circles, the frost was thick on the grass and fallen leaves. Ice was among the leaves in the birdbath and the still air was sharp with the promise of winter. The sun bright yellow leaves of the Silver Maple have been holding tight, but they rained down around me with a whisper in the still cold air.

It has been a surprisingly warm fall. I still have a taste of summer in a vase. Rose, and Foxglove and Salvia.