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This is my first , pressing question for the forum. Last Spring, I bought two carlesii
Viburnum compacta from Bluestone Perennials. They were each perhaps four inches tall and have grown to about six inches now. One , in more shade than the second, has a single stem and five leaves. The second, the same height, has branched and leafed out nicely. They are both planted in the ground in spots I cleared in my vinca-covered front yard. They are healthy but small and seem so vulnerable…should I dig, pot and bring them inside to survive the winter or is there a way to insure their safety outside?
If they are rated for your zone, and Bluestone recommended planting them in the ground at that size, they should, with moderate care, be fine. I would see to it that they are well mulched, and in the event of a hard freeze given benefit of a bit of extra protection in the form of a large pot upended over them to protect from snow/ice damage. It must be removed as soon as imminent danger is past.
A fellow DGer from Mass. showed us pictures of a tipi made from two pieces of plywood joined at the top and used to protect small plants from snow and ice damage. This can be left in place as it allows for light and airflow.
Thank you "themoonhowl" for your advice and Jim41 for your vote of confidence. I have just written Bluestone Perennials for their recommendation. I really don't want to dig the plants up as I don't want to disturb the roots.
Violet, according to Bluestone's site, the Viburnum Compacta carlesii is listed for hardiness at zone 4, so should do quite well in your area with a little extra protection this first year while it gets established.
