At 07:43 AM 10/15/2004, you wrote: >I live in Albany in Western Australia. The climate is slightly colder >than Meditteranean. It sounds like you live in a lovely spot! The climate here in Ohio is very cold in winter & hot in summer. We can have below freezing weather from October through April, though there are always warm spells in there that get us into the 50's & 60's (sorry, I don't know the Celsius conversion). Snow can be sporadic, so a winter mulch of leaves & wood chips is a good idea. Though to be honest, I have given up trying to grow tender things. If they can't survive on their own then I don't want them! With that said, I've been surprised at how many things I can grow from mild climates like South Africa, Mexico, and even Crete. Anyway, thanks for introducing yourself to us. I think you will enjoy our group! Dennis in Cincinnati (Ohio, USA, Zone 6)