Gardenia radicans – Protection

Q: I just planted Monrovia Gardenia radicans in my yard in Atlanta. The label says they are cold hardy only to 10-20`. How should I protect them when the temperature is in the teens? If there is ice or snow, would that protect them?

A: We’ve had mild winters in recent years so it shouldn’t be too bad. My neighbor has 15 plants that have thrived. I’d simply buy a roll of black plastic to cover them if temps threaten to go lower than 20 otherwise leave them alone.