Tag Archives: hardiness zones

Hardiness Zone FAQ

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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?

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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?

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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?

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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.

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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.

Hardiness Zones

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At Westchester Tree Life, our goal is for your plants, trees and shrubs to maintain a constant peak of health!  To give your plants, shrubs and trees a healthy start, it is vital to select an area they would best thrive.  If you’ve ever browsed online for seeds or bulbs, you’ve probably seen a reference to hardiness zones.  Knowing all about hardiness zones is a great way to maximize the success of your plantings and to know which plants may be vulnerable during the harsher times of year.  If you have any questions or concerns about your plant’s health, ask a Westchester Tree Life professional!  Call Westchester Tree Life here:  (914) 238-0069

hardiness zones

Westchester Tree Life Explains Hardiness Zones:

So what does hardiness zone refer to?  To put it simply, the United States is divided into hardiness zones based on each region’s weather patterns.  There are 13 hardiness zones in the US.  The lower the number, the colder the winter.  For example, Louisiana is in Zone 9 while North Dakota is mainly in Zone 3.  If you’re considering planting a shrub best suited to hardiness zone 5-7, you want to make sure your location falls within that range.  Otherwise, your plants may not survive until spring.

It’s also important to know that some plants actually need a certain level of cold in order to survive.  A plant that is hardy enough to grow in northern Maine may not grow in Florida.  The hardiness zones in one state can vary widely.  Here in New York, you could be in zone 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7!  Our own local Westchester County area, as well as New York City, northern New Jersey, Rockland county, southern Connecticut, and parts of Long Island are in hardiness zone 6.  

New York State Hardiness Zone MapWhile hardiness zones can be a useful guide in knowing which plants can thrive in your yard, there are other factors to take into consideration.  Wind, rainfall, humidity, soil composition, and sunlight can all effect the health and growth of your plants.  When considering adding a new tree, shrub, or perennial to your existing greenery, it’s always a good idea to seek the advice of an expert.