Some interesting reading here using the Sunset Climate Zone maps.
http://www.sunset.com/garden/c...
Unlike the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone maps which is based on only the coldest temperature of a winter, these maps consider many other factors, like micro climates within a particular, much smaller area. This makes things look more favorable for growing lilies in Anchorage than I previously thought, especially in the warm spots. So, burying the pots sideways with good mulch in winter could most likely be done in those areas with pretty good confidence. Not only that, there's a pretty good possibility that lilies could be left in ground year-round in these warmer areas of Anchorage, especially a garden with a southern exposure and southern slope to it. I would also try a slightly raised bed because that would warm faster in early Spring than the regular surface.
Mary, are you familiar with these warmer areas of Anchorage?
