Overwinter in north central Kansas?

[NoTopSkies]

I added the leaves today from a redbud and a catalpa. Then it started dropping baby ice pellets that eventually turned to flakes. Last night I think it got down to 18*.

 

[NoTopSkies]

As far as the two pots of maples...they have been shuffled outside in the mornings and into the shop at night, simply because I am unsure of what to do. it is hilarious though because my shop is staying about 51-54* and it has been much colder outside - even during the day. I am going to play this by ear hoping I slowly harden the roots. Then I will probably bury them with a styrofoam cooler over them for wind/ice protection.

 

[NoTopSkies]

I did the Bonsai dance in and out of the garage to try to break these in to the cold gently. I am now just leaving them in the garage at about 42-50 most nights. They aren’t needing much water now! Since I am a newbie I sure hope this works. The little Trident forest is completely leafless and the palmatum is stil holding a few leaves but if you touch them they will fall.

 

[Leo in N E Illinois]

I'm in St Louis today, and it is getting close to 70 F. This winter is wacky. Sounds and looks like what you are doing is working.

Next year, no new trees from anyplace south of you after September 1. Then all can adapt to your winter.

 

[NoTopSkies]

Good tip on South of the border! I will be looking for some Amur seeds as well.

 

[NoTopSkies]

From Olive Branch Mississippi to northern Kansas is a big change this time of year. For the trident planting. Do you have any place that stays above freezing, but fairly cool?

Used the garage. It is now starting to leaf out. tomorrow night and Friday we are supposed to have freezing. Garage dance again!

 

[NoTopSkies]

My little Mugo did suffer from the buried experiment. Lots of brown in the needles. I asked the supplier and he just said to be patient.

 

[NoTopSkies]

Meanwhile...our only fruit tree will get its flowers whacked tomorrow night.

I don't raise trident maples in the Chicago area, because I found them not quite winter hardy here. In Kansas, I think your best bet would be to winter it in your shop.

I switched to Amur maples, because they really are fully hardy here. I don't have to protect my Amur maples at all.

I have ordered a couple of Amur to experiment with.

 

[NoTopSkies]

Holy smokes! 25*