(Rodger Whitlock) wrote in
:

Herbaceous material simply doesn't grow during the winter, a
severe cold snap can destroy bulbs. They may be hardy but they're
not *that* hardy. Narcissus are bulbs that are bone hardy for the
most part *if* planted in the ground or in pots given a modicum
of protection, but hanging from a lamp post, they freeze through
and through -- and likely die.

But in the UK it's unusual for it to get that cold. In London, for
example, I've seen the tender varieties of cyclamen planted outside in
window boxes. I don't suppose the corms are much good the next year, but
they certainly don't freeze solid and disappear instantly.

London is warmer than most places, but here for example (OK, a long way
south, but high up, little winter sun, and with the wind blowing straight
off Dartmoor) bulbs have no problems in exposed pots, troughs and raised
planters, and I'd be surprised if a basket was that much more vulnerable.

My neighbours had a hanging basketful of dwarf narcissi last year, and it
was fine.

I don't use them much though. Most bulbs only flower for a month or so,
and don't look great before or after: personally I'd rather use something
with a rather longer lifespan if I'm going to the trouble of hanging
baskets. Maybe the odd bulb mixed with other stuff.

Victoria
--
gardening on a north-facing hill
in South-East Cornwall
--