Hi,

You should have no problems growing minis in zone 4. I'm in 5 and I only put a very light mulch cover over them for winter protection. They are VERY hardy, some people dont protect them at all. So far I only grow Jean Kenneally. I love her-beautiful bloom machine w/fragrant apricot blooms and a nice form. Hope this helps a little!

Jen

Instead of trying to list all our minis here in Billings That is a link to an album with pics of most we grow. If you have questions about any of them I'll be happy to let you know more about them. Sweet Chariot and Little Artist only get tip damage during winter.

Here is a link that might be useful: Deb & Digger's Garden

Hi Dave,

I was hoping you'd chime in on this one. I know this is off topic-sorry Ice Angel!-but I was browsing your photos and I LOVE that Fernleaf Peony! Where in the world did you find that?

Jen

LOL, Fernleaf peonies (Paeonia Tenuifolia) grow like weeds for us. A neighbor, Edna, had given Deb's Grandma some back in the 80s so clump #1 was here when we moved in. Deb and Edna became pals. Edna was in her 90s and we (mostly Deb) took care of her yard for her. We wouldn't take money so she paid us with flowers. Clump #2 got here that way. After Edna passed away, the new owner was rototilling the area and I asked if we could have the dozen he was about to till under. That was how we got clump #3 :) Don't have a stroke if you look for them. They are expensive. $35 for a starter is the cheapest I have seen them. $70 to $80 is the cheapest I have seen them at local nurseries... if they have them. They are early growers and it is fun seeing them come up through the snow.

I didn't tell the new owner of Edna's place that we have a standing offer of $40 a plant from a local nursery owner for any extra plants we will part with. He was about to till under almost $500.