I remember when I was living in UK, spring arrived and suddenly the whole rather boring garden was carpeted in daffodils and grape hyacinths. So beautiful! I've tried growing bulbs here, but, like you guys Smaug, it's too hot over winter and spring. This year I just haven't the money to spare on buying perennials so I've tried seeds. I've never had much luck before, but this year I've been very caring and they look as if they will be fine. My baby spinach is galloping ahead and I cut some last Saturday and the basil is also doing wonderfully well.