In my agricultural zone, we gardeners want lots of snow on our gardens because snow insulates. Thusly, the bitter cold temperatures and violant winds are not as damaging to our plants.
The winds sweep the ground and hosta roots become exposed, and are more likely to die. A thick layer of snow, more than 12" is a great insulator.
Spring is the real killer of plants here. Too wet kills almost all genus of plants. Plus, the thawing and freezing that happens in spring kills many, including hostas, daylilies, and bearded irises.
Late frost is also a killer. In my gardens, I can expect to see a frost as late as Memorial Day. Tomatoes, for example, will be planted after Memorial Day.
