I have sedum and other succulents in pots on my deck, although not hanging ones. They are in semi-shade most of the time and tolerate virtually any conditions. We are zone-nine, so they do not have real cold. But they have so far managed very nicely in sun, shade, pounding rainstorms, and long dry periods. In fact, they are the most impressive container plants I've ever had.

Erin, I looked at your list, but I'm really only looking for sedums right now. Kathy I never got your email.

Athen', I'm so sorry! I have so many Weigela's that I sometimes get them mixed up! Weigela florida ÂElvera - Midnight Wine is a cutie, but it is smaller. I meant to say: Weigela ÂShining SensationÂ. It's really beautiful, just like I described originally. It would be quite easy to keep at 4'. I would simply give it a clipping down to about 3' or 3.5' after it's second mid-season bloom (late-July). Remember, it blooms on old wood so you'll want to give it plenty of time to recover from that pruning before the first frost so that it gives you plenty of blooms next year. I think you should have no problems keeping the Physocarpus opulifolius ÂSummer Wine - Seward at 4'. No problem, at all. Again, just don't be too shy about pruning. I think Lindalana's advice about using Sambucus 'Black Lace' and Dirtdiver's advice about using Cotinus 'Royal Purple' or 'Grace' and coppicing them in early spring (like you would a Buddleia) is a great idea for other applications, but I doubt you'd be able to keep them at 4'. They're much more likely to go to 5' or even 6' in one season. It's too bad, because they're both so beautiful; especially for us purple-leaved addicts! As mentioned, they're also tough and drought-tolerant. Sorry about the boo-boo ealier. Again, best of luck! Steve

Charlie, There is also a cold hardy cactus forum on another list exchange that cannot be named here. If you're interested, contact me privately, and I'll direct you to it. Also note that the problem for us in wetter climates (Kentucky is similar, but not identical to my climate in Pennsylvania) is not just the cold tolerance, but the winter wetness tolerance. Some of the most cold tolerant cacti and succulents cannot survive wet winters. So you have to be careful what you pick out to try to grow.