AboutTom Alonzo Expertise I have been growing plants from seeds for at least 20 years. I have grown literally hundreds of different kinds of vegetables, trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, tropicals, some cacti, water plants, iris, rose, lilies, cannas, etc. I enjoy starting from seed.
Experience I've been growing my own seeds for 20 years with indoor propagation equipment I built myself. I am also an Allexperts volunteer on the perennial forum. I have completed the Master Gardener course through the Kansas State University Extension. I have experience with a wide variety of seeds and I have also read through Norm Deno's books on seed germination.
Question planted 30 blueberry hardwood cuttings 03/09--18 developed roots by 08/09 and put on new growth and seem to be o.k.---since i need to leave in propation media until early spring, how do i protect young starts over winter in zone 7-- thanks !
Answer Hi Tom,
Thanx for your question. I'm really not a berry expert but I would protect them the same way you might protect other young perennials. Give them a good straw mulch. If they have been rooting as long as you indicated, they should have a substantial root system on which to draw water and nutrients. You indicated that there is new gowth and Zone 7 winters are fairly mild compared to zones farther north. So, if the plants are growing outdoors in a nursery bed, mulch with straw and I think they have enough root growth to get through the winter. If they are in a cold-frame propagator or hoop house that you can shut doors or cover with plastic, that should be enough protection until spring. Can you tell me your location? I can probably find you some free, local advice. I hope this helps.
Tom
