Clearing clutter

This week has been one of many achievements, mainly in the line of clearing the clutter in my head! The really important things I have been procrastinating over for the last 3 years are on the brink of finalisation, which has lifted a tremendous burden and cleared the way for some decisiveness in areas where it is most needed.

A slight lull in formal work which kept me tied to the computer for many months (and gratefully received) has allowed me to work in the garden for a few hours a day, landscaping a much-neglected area at no cost, by simply clearing out the grassy overgrowth, levelling the area and relocating the prolific bromeliads which thrive in my garden. They have multiplied so well over the years that I am able to fill every shady spot with them. The tall varieties hide ugly vibracrete and rows of steadily diminishing height will make for a line of colour in some place or other pretty much throughout the year. The poor quality of the soil - actually just ancient sea sand - is of no consequence to these interesting plants, which are of the airplant family, and they benefit most from having snails removed and a regular watering into the centre of the plant. Oh, and preferably deep shade. There are a few varieties that have red leaves and do well in a bit of sun but apart from that they are perfect for difficult areas of the garden.

 The weather has turned to definite autumn, with rain forecast for the next three or four days - a perfect opportunity to feed the garden without having to water it, ready for the next season. For us, it's time to make sure the house is watertight and windproof before the first winter storms strike, and to dig the slippers and winter woollies out from the back of the cupboard! This is Cape Town, after all, and for the next few months we can expect any type of weather, from icy winter to sultry summer, right up to the end of June.  It's not a time to make plans for any outdoor events without a Plan B and it's best to be prepared for all eventualities.

That said, it's no coincidence that this is the time of year most favoured by tourists from Europe who come to spend months on end in our mainly sunny climate. Let's hope it doesn't disappoint!