Daisyl -
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.
So what structure over a 4' diameter bog would you suggest for Winter protection? I could put a 6" PVC frame topped with chicken wire overlayed with evergreen cuttings to keep snow off. That would eliminate sunlight though.
How about a clear plastic tent and brush the snow off?
What would YOU do in Southern MD to TRY to keep VFT alive over the Winter here? I love those things and would go to some effort to keep them here.