Sorry Rob, much of your argument is based on a couple of cold winters in your location. You seem to have a very cold micro-climate that is not representative of most of the UK, but seem to be making statements as though it is the same for everyone, and this why there are so many arguments.fern Rob wrote: We are going to have to continue to disagree, fungal attacks are going to happen when they are cold and damp, the roots of the plant will provide water through winter.
Wrap these plants all winter to prevent loss, just keep check on the plants.
It would be better if you said " This is what I do and It works for my location" rather than implying "this is what you need to do to prevent loss".
Plants from wet areas that are cold in winter tend not to suffer from wet related ailments, like fungal attacks and rots.