The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map divides the U.S. and Canada into zones based on minimum winter temperatures.

The higher the number, the warmer the zone. However, USDA zones don't consider such factors as humidity and rainfall. In the West, many gardeners use a 24-zone system that considers rainfall, elevation and marine influence. Unfortunately, there's no similar system in the East--you have to rely on local knowledge.

Generally New York and Vermont are zones 4 or 5. Of course, other factors influence the zone. Factors like elevation, or the presence of a large lake are local influences. Those at higher elevations are likely to drop a zone.

For example the wild flowers on the top of Rattlesnake Mountain will be several weeks behind. At the tops of our highest mountains, it is likely to be a zone 3 or even 2! Another influence that affects the zone designation is an urban setting. City environments tend to speed up blooms - the heat absorbed by brick houses and asphalt radiates off at night, helping plants get a fast start.

When can you push the zone limits?

When you are talking about trees, and shrubs that over winter, you should stick to the zone guide fairly faithfully. After all they are likely to be expensive, and they will leave a nasty hole should they die! However, you can use techniques like sacking and the use of microclimates to stretch a zone. If the winter is average, you should be okay. However; be prepared, a harsher than normal winter could mean death.

Residents right next to Lake Champlain are probably safe if they choose plants that are at the cusp of zone 5-6. As our weather channels attests to, our lake generally gives us a couple of degrees the over interior like Lamoille, VT or Malone, NY.

Summer annuals and perennials are safer gambles. Firstly, the investment is generally less. Experimentation comes cheap in the summer. Secondly, smaller perennials can be more easily protected by the use of mulch, straw, and sacking. However, you will most likely find that you get fewer blooms and / or growth than the plant would get in the ideal environment.

The Pros Say...Microclimates in your yard can make it warmer or colder than its USDA zone indicates. For example, the sunny south side of your house is typically warmer in winter than the shady, wind-driven north side. You could grow plants from a warmer zone on the south side but you might need plants from a colder zone on the north side.

   About LakeChamplain.com | Help | Contact Us