I have used deep layers of leaves which were primarily oak leaves up to 30 inches thick and pine straw both loose and bailed. Of course I am in zone 8b. It will definitely held protect the necks here as well as borderline cycads, but I cannot say that growth/recovery in the spring is faster when compared to plants with full exposure here. It does help with survival and recovery with Crinums whose basal plate is close to the surface like C. asiaticum. I might use mulch that does not retain water well which is the enemy when it comes to freezing if it is cold enough. Wood chips may not be the best. Alani -----Original Message----- From: pbs-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org [mailto:pbs-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org] On Behalf Of rdjenkins Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2006 11:11 AM To: Pacific Bulb Society Subject: [pbs] Winter care for Crinums. This year I am trying something new with my hardy Crinums. They come back readily each year here in 7b, but winter freezes take them down to soil level. It always seemed like a waste to have them start over from soil level each year, so this year I'm applying a deep layer of wood chips (8 or more inches) around them to see if the necks can make it through intact. As the winter progresses, I intend to top the beds with dried leaves. Has anyone else in the winter-feeze zones done anything like this? Robert. _______________________________________________ pbs mailing list pbs@lists.ibiblio.org http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/list.php