Question
Hi Nick!  I was given a Bouganvilla in a container as a gift.  I had great luck with them in warm climates, but now I live on Whidbey Is. in Washington state and I'm told they need to come inside for the winter.  I really would like to plant it along my fence but don't know the best way to protect it from our 30-40 degree winters.  Help!  Thank you!

Answer
Hey Linda, ok, you are correct in thinking it may need protection, it will! I would cut it back to just about a foot or so and then mulch it heavily; as long as the ground doesn't freeze, during the day if its above freezing, move the mulch aside, then at night cover it again;it should come back for you in the spring, the only problem though, is it is not a plant that goes dormant, so it will still be trying to grow (not very well mind you, in 40 degree temps) but give it a shot, otherwise, you will have to try to winter it inside, and again, not the type of plant for that either. Good Luck..Nick