On a positive note, the cold snaps should actually make the carrots taste better. I like to generally grow them through the winter with radishes in a full sun garden that drains well. I picked about 10lbs of carrots in early February and they were pretty good. I have a few blueberry varieties, some Elderberry, and blackberries as well that appear untouched by the low temps (mid/ upper 20's) the state has experienced the last few days. I think your going to be pleasantly surprised with how it all shakes out. For what it is worth, I have learned with the berry plants to not coddle them. I will give them a little peat about once a year with some fresh mulch around the base of the plant.
I have not covered any of my plants ever.
When I plant them, I do not use anything but the dirt that came from the hole (basically clay in Stanly Co.) and a little mulch mixed in. I Do agonize about where they are planted though, and try to ensure good placement for the variety. The most important thing for me is growing a tough plant that can survive. They will adapt or die. Blueberries start to get their best yields into the 8-10 year range, from what I understand and a lot can happen over that time. I have learned it is important to let them show you if they want to be there. I also like to companion plant pollinators and other plants that encourage the target plants health along with planting some things to keep the birds fed and off my berries. I have not lost one blueberry yet, despite the fact that I accidentally mowed one last year.
Also blackberries are really rewarding and very easy to grow, tough plants. If you just keep up with the canes once a year they will yield.
I use varieties with thorns to protect other plantings in some occasions, while putting a thornless variety out for the opportunists to much on, as an example. I try to embrace the stuff I cant change. If deer become a big problem though and cause unwanted crop damage, I like to use a small piece of lycra or panty hose, some moth balls and a string to hang scent deterrents around the crop, during yield or growing times, if it is not deer season.
I hope this is some positive fruit for ya. Grow those plants with reckless abandon, roll with the punches, and Good Luck!
