Do you have an unheated garage? I'd hesitate to keep them inside since the dryness makes it hard for these plants to survive, and most northern perennials rely on a cold period, so at the very least, I'd put them where they will be cold, but still get some light.

Also, I don't know about you, but right now it's astonishingly warm here for this time of year - didn't get below freezing last night, which is unheard of in central NH in January and has been in the 40's during the day for a week. So, if you have thawed ground, I'd loosen up the compacted roots some, plant them where they will get some shade, and water and mulch well so that they don't heave with freeze-thaw cycle. Just my opinion based on trying to keep tender perennials alive inside.

There's an idea! It's fify here and the ground is soggy. But I bet the soil in the raised beds can be dug with some effort. You are correct about keeping them moist. Big challenge.
No garage, heated or unheated. I do have an unheated room in the basement with very dim light, but I think I"d still worry about keeping the soil moist. The temps in that room in winter are probably 15-20 degrees warmer than outside. (i'm zone 5a, Lexington Temps usually in 20's in winter...but sometimes...you know.... zero or 55!
Do you think I ought to try basement or outdoors?

Marie

outdoors. water once( or not if rain is coming).no need for mulch-- it's hardy as heck- z.THREE for heaven's sake. weigh down w/ a few bricks to prevent heaving and encourage roots to bond w/ soil. PLUS, it's a native evergreen, so this really should be a no-worry plant for you.
mindy
www.cottonarboretum.com/