Plant Hardiness Zones and Frost Free Dates
There are literally thousands upon thousands of varieties of plants. Not
all of them will thrive in a given type of climate. Cactus like the heat
and dryness of semi arid areas. Palm and orange trees need lots of heat
and water. Lettuce and cabbage does well in cooler weather. Plant hardiness
zones define the environment for particular groups of plants. It is a gardener's
tool for selecting the proper plants, those that will thrive in the area
you live in. By knowing the hardiness zone you live in, you can select
the right plants to grow for your area.
Plant Hardiness zones represents the average low temperature range for an
area. The US Department of Agriculture has developed eleven zones or ranges
of minimum temperatures. They are as follows:
Zone 1 |
Below -50F, -46C |
Zone 7 |
-0F to 10F, -18C to -12C |
Zone 2 |
-50F to -40F, -46C to -40C |
Zone 8 |
10F to 20F, 126C to -7C |
Zone 3 |
-40F to -30F, -40C to -34C |
Zone 9 |
20F to 30F, -7C to -1C |
Zone 4 |
-30F to -20F, -34C to -29C |
Zone 10 |
30F to 40F, -1C to 4C |
Zone 5 |
-20F to -10F, -29C to -23C |
Zone 11 |
Above 40F, Above 4C |
Zone 6 |
-10F to -0F, -23C to -18C |
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So why is this important? well, each plant has a minimum temperature range
in which it can survive during the winter months. Once you know your range,
you can select perennial plants that will survive the winters in your area.
Frost Free Dates:
The first and last frost dates are critical dates for those of us who plant
tender annuals. It is crucial to know the first and last frost free dates
in your area.
It is important to note that these dates can vary significantly, even in
a small area. For example if you are right by a large lake, in a valley,
or high up on a hill, overnight lows will vary. Check with local growers
and your local garden stores.
Always be vigilant of tender annuals on cold nights. Be prepared to cover
them up.
Plant
Hardiness Zone Map provided by the USDA shows all of North America and
you can select your state for closer detail.
More Information:
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