Hi All,
I was going to start a new thread but this thread illustrates my exact situation, growing on a balcony and facing my first winter. I’m in Queens, NYC, so from my research, I’m a zone 7B.
Let me say that I have done much research both in all my books and online without really finding anything that gives me a level of comfort to a great degree. I’m not at all new to Bonsai having begun in the mid 1980’s but since I’ve lived in apartments and never really having any access to the outdoors, I’ve always kept tropicals under lights in doors and without much success might I add. Now I’m in an apartment with a balcony so this spring I bought a bunch of suitable outdoor varieties which are still in their nursery pots, none larger than 3-5 gal pots. My goal was to see If I could keep them alive, which I have! They are doing great!
But now, as October wanes and Halloween approaches the nights will eventually begin to cool down, I’m left worrying. Before I list my species, let me say that from my research, I found that I think my best shot at winter survival is twofold: my selection of plants and my latest purchase. Let me talk about my cold frame purchase first. I’m completely unsure if this is going to work out but I searched and searched for what I thought was the most appropriate size and type for my specific fit for my balcony. I decided upon the Giantex Garden Portable Wooden Cold Frame Greenhouse Raised Flower Planter Protection: (35.4"X31.3"X23.0")
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N4JI27T/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This will fit all of my plants comfortably. I also purchased two other items: bubble wrap and burlap. My plan is to place the bubble wrap on the floor of the cold frame, wrap the bubble wrap around the plants and then wrap it all with burlap. I’m hoping this will provide enough coverage and protection from the cold and the wind while inside the cold frame. My fingers are crossed.
My species include:
Dwarf Jack Pine, Variegated English Boxwood, Kingsville Boxwood, Dwarf Mugo Pine, Blue Star Juniper, Dwarf Alberta Spruce, Heavenly Bamboo, Cotoneaster, Japanese Holly, Azalea, Rosemary, Shindeshojo Maples
From what I could find researching, all but the Rosemary should have a fighting chance inside the cold frame, and maybe they too, but I’m not certain.
I would never put the burden on you for what I can research myself but I cannot find definitive answers for my particular situation. There was a time I could easily speak to my friends at Jiu San Bonsai on Long Island but sadly, very sadly, those days are past as the shop is long gone unfortunately.
I realize this is way long so I’ll end it here to ask if anyone could offer some advice on my approach to the impending winter and my plan to confront it. Much appreciated!