John, In my opinion, you can keep it "snug as a bug in a rug" outside. I have done it before....in nortwest Alabama climate.
For UV protection, consider some type of alluminum fabric...salvage stuff is cheap. I found some discarded plastic air conditioning duct, covered with aluminum fabric. Removed the fabric and made my covers. (heating and air conditioner contractors ought to have lots of this) Seal the joints (I used tape) where water can run under the cover and get into the plane....for instance, the gap between front of canopy and fuselage. Also, make a cover for your prop. I used some convertible top (scraps) material...... cut it to fit and sew it up with some nylon fishing line....or something that will withstand the weather. With a little effort and your pleasant climate, you should be able to save lots of bucks. T .