try some well strawed manure it will protect and nurrish, not you the shrubs lol

Any kind of mulching material to a depth of 4 inches minimum - bark, straw, even horticultural fleece

I find it perfectly hardy, grows fine without any winter protection

That's what I'd have thought, Magga. I don't think it needs any protection.

Hear,hear, I agree with Garrya being hardy and needing no coddling.