how did my backyard explode with color before spring even started?

Last week, I walked outside and nearly tripped over a patch of daffodils. In February! I always thought you had to wait for spring, but nope—North Carolina has its own rules. I tossed some bulbs in the ground last fall, barely remembering where, and now they’re showing off like they own the place. Turns out, mixing early bloomers like crocuses and hellebores with your usual suspects keeps the garden lively even when it’s chilly. I water just enough to keep the soil damp and toss a little mulch to keep roots cozy. Every morning, I peek out the window and get a little jolt of happiness from those pops of color. It’s like my yard’s personal cheer squad, months before everyone else joins in. #gardening #northcarolina #flowers