We went through the same flail yesterday evening, and as it happened, the temperature didn't really drop that low. But I had just transplanted my beloved amaryllis, and was taking no chances. (I did not tent the hydrangea, so will have to go and take a look.) I have found that if I take the precautions, there is no need. However, if I scoff at Elizabeth Gardner's dire warnings on WRAL, and take no precautions, I am sure to find frost damaged pants the next morning.
We went through the same flail yesterday evening, and as it happened, the temperature didn't really drop that low. But I had just transplanted my beloved amaryllis, and was taking no chances. (I did not tent the hydrangea, so will have to go and take a look.) I have found that if I take the precautions, there is no need. However, if I scoff at Elizabeth Gardner's dire warnings on WRAL, and take no precautions, I am sure to find frost damaged pants the next morning.
That was our thought as well - as sure as we don't do it, we'll be sorry. We didn't get down to freezing here, either.