Late summer, early autumn in Explorers brings forth a swathe of blue in the South African area as the Agapanthus,  (the African Lily), bursts into flower. The Japanese Windflower, or Anemone japonica, is also in full bloom with its delicate pink and white flowers. These will be in bloom for several weeks during the Autumn months.

The red squirrels are very much in evidence and can often be seen at the feeders - providing they don't see you first!

Another weekend of Art in the Garden will take place on September 3rd and 4th. Take the chance to walk around the garden and view the various workshops. Some of the workshops on offer include Dry Stane Dyking, Willow weaving and Stained Glass work. Spaces are still available so come along and learn a new craft. Contact the Pitlochry Festival Theatre Box Office for details and booking. There will be artists' work exhibited and for sale in the David Douglas Pavilion.

By the time you are reading this, initial work for the laying of the pebble mosaic floor in the George Forrest pavilion, (see the July issue of Newsround North), will be getting started. It is not too late to come forward to learn a new skill and help with this fascinating project.  Contact Glenda Rudd, Volunteer Co-ordinator, on 07929277744.

We are very excited that Explorers is to host the 2011 Enchanted Forest, entitled Transitions. The event will run from the 7th until the 29th October. Bookings can be made online or in person at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre Box Office, or Just The Ticket! on Atholl Road.

In July we said farewell to one of our long-standing Garden Guides. Since 2002, John Dick  has been walking the garden paths and sharing his knowledge of the Scottish Plant Hunters. He was taking visitors around before the garden was even open to the public. Records show that he has done at least 240 tours. That is quite a few miles and a lot of talking! Thank you John, for being such a wonderful ambassador for Explorers.