I uploaded this pic up before- some of you might remember it.

3 of each plant over the summer were planted out. I have to say each plant was quite small- so the trial cant be considered that accurate!

When it came to protecting in winter. 1 was lifted and kept under glass, one was protected outside using fleece or straw, the last was left open to the elements.

I think they were checking to see over the years which plants grew best under each treatment.

Plants trialed were Agave americana, Washingtonia, Trachypus fortuneii, Phoenix, Cycas revoluta, Olive, Acacia dealbata, Musa basjoo, Brahea armata and Chamerops humilis.

Im sure most of you will agree that the hardiness of these plants isnt even questionable!!- but as you may notice the acacia (on right) and Washy left unprotected were hammered that winter! But still good that the gardening which? are looking at tropicals abit more closely. Perhaps they should have used more obviously borderline hardy plants!