Easily determine what plants, shrubs and trees grow best in your area by knowing your hardiness zone! Hardiness zones are defined by conditions such as minimum temperatures, and determine which specific category of plant life is capable of growing and thriving there.
What are Hardiness Zones?
The United States and Canada are divided into 11 plant hardiness zones based on a 10 degree Fahrenheit difference in the average annual minimum temperature.
How Do I Determine My Hardiness Zone?
The United States Department of Agriculture has a map which can assist you in determining your hardiness zone. View the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map here.
What Does “Suitable Hardiness” Mean?
Suitable hardiness means a plant which can be expected to grow in the zone’s temperature extremes; this is determined by the lowest average annual temperature. (via arborday.org)
Are There Other Factors That Affect Plant Survival Aside From Hardiness Zone Limitations?
Yes! Soil moisture, humidity, the number of days of frost and risk evaluation such as the probability of a severe low temperature should all be taken into account.
For more information, read our blog, “Hardiness Zones” here. For assistance in determining the best plant health care for your garden or landscape, request a consultation from Westchester Tree Life here.