My Fuchsia magellanicas have survived their second winter in the Chicago, IL area (zone 5). I cover them with soil in late fall, removing in early spring. The plants die back nearly to ground, and new shoots start from ground level or a quarter inch up or so. They've stayed very small, but they survive. .......Dave
That's great - they survive my winters here in coastal VA, but aren't crazy about our hot, humid summers. Mine would proably enjoy spending the summer with you in Chicago!
My Fuchsia magellanicas have had some trouble with Verticillium wilt. I've moved them and they survived last winter, but I'm concerned they've about had it. I don't see much online about resistant and hardy Fuchsias.
Tight soil could be a contributor, I have heavy clay. It drains reasonably well, though. Too late to replant this year. If they survive another winter, I'll try transplanting in better soil with some peat or compost.
