I have had relatively good luck with the cold-hardy "Winter" series camellias, and wanted to try a spring blooming variety. When I was in the South, I purchased 3 Camellia Jap. Kumasaka's and planted them this summer up against my brick house (within 3 ft.) under the canopy of a large hemlock and a mature white pine. The space is within an "L" shape of the house, but faces the south- though it does not get much sun. I live in the city and the area is very protected. I have never protected the "Winter" series camellias other than with some wilt-proof and maybe a covering on the coldest nights. I know that the Kumasaka's will need more protection and was told that they would do just fine and bloom if I made a wire and burlap cage and filled it with oak leaves. Is that true? What else could I do...??? I really want to give these nice looking plants a shot.. they are full of buds. If anybody has any experience or suggestions I would appreciate it...