SEPTEMBER
2001
With the
approach of Autumn, the garden begins to look jaded. Plants seem to make one
last growth spurt and all of a sudden almost everything needs trimming or
cutting down. The grass is growing strongly but with rain, heavy dews and the
reappearance of worm casts, it is increasingly difficult to find the right
conditions for mowing without making a total mess of it.
You will
have seen the Swallows (nest cam does not show swallows from this country. DT)
gathering in the lane in readiness for their return to
warmer climes. Noticeably fewer than in recent years, a trend that
has been
reported in other areas. Although it does not seem to indicate a general decline
in Swallow numbers, a fall of up to 40 to 50% has occurred in specific places of
which the South East is one. It has been suggested that it could relate to the
drop in the number of dairy farms (fewer cows, fewer flies, less food for young
Swallows).
Foot and
Mouth rumbles on and now totals more than 2000 cases. Wasn’t it said to be
over by the time of the general election? Latest predictions are for it to
continue well into 2002.
St
Michael’s day on the 29th September is the only day of predictions
for the month. "As the wind is on St Michaels day so 't’will be for three
months” and also “On Michaelmas Day the devil puts his foot on blackberry's”.
HIRUNDINE
7th September 2001
Have you signed or viewed the Guest Book? Have you contributed to the Forum?
Some useful links:
