Pruning in the rain

Another warm but rainy Saturday after the hottest days of the week (while I was shooting Christmas food!) but not so wet as to prevent a good pruning session - nothing is quite so satisfying, especially when it reveals hidden treasures struggling for light. Contrary to general advice I am having to cut back R Kiftsgate as it looks so untidy and it's thorny stems dangling about quite a hazard. The hop leaves peppered with snail holes are also best tidied making space to see the budding clematis better. Clematis Etoile Violette and Diana are both really late this year which I consider a bonus in keeping the flowering season going before the dahlias come into their own. My new Cl. Sunny Sky is performing really well, brightening up a dark spot - still in it's pot! The pretty little flowers of Cl. Betty Corning are looking a bit fragile but it seems to be establishing itself quite well. In spite of neglect there are a couple of huge flower heads budding on the agapanthus - lovely to photograph on my fabulous 100mm macro lens.