Developing A Native Plant Hill: Should I Cover Them In Plastic When Cold?

Q: I am developing a native plant hill in our back yard. Last fall I planted beautyberry, viburnum, fothergilla, St. Johns wort, bee balm and butterfly weed. I am diligently covering them with plastic whenever it is going to be below 30 degrees. Is this necessary? 

A: I have good news! Because these are native plants, there is no need to cover them in winter. They tolerate cold weather just fine. They can spend the time until spring growing new roots.

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