Missouri is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States, known for its diverse landscape and rich agricultural heritage. If you’re a gardener in Missouri, it’s essential to know your planting zone to ensure that your plants thrive in the climate and soil conditions of the region.
What is a Planting Zone?
A planting zone is a geographic area defined by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) based on the average annual minimum temperature. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map divides the United States into 13 zones, each with a range of 10°F.
The planting zone helps gardeners determine which plants are most likely to thrive in their region, based on the minimum temperature that the plant can tolerate. Gardeners can use the planting zone to select plants that are best suited for their climate and ensure that their garden will flourish.
Planting Zones in Missouri
Missouri is located in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5a to 7b. The northern part of the state, including St. Louis and Kansas City, is in Zone 6a, where the average minimum temperature ranges from -10°F to -5°F. The southern part of the state, including Springfield and Branson, is in Zone 7a, where the average minimum temperature ranges from 0°F to 5°F.
It’s essential to know your planting zone to select plants that are best suited for your climate. Plants that are not adapted to your planting zone may not survive the winter or may not thrive during the growing season.
Plants for Missouri Gardens
Missouri’s diverse landscape and climate allow for a wide variety of plants that can thrive in the state. Some popular plants for Missouri gardens include:
1. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
Black-eyed Susan is a perennial flower that is native to Missouri and can thrive in both sun and shade. It blooms in late summer and early fall and attracts butterflies and bees to the garden.
2. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Cardinal flower is a perennial flower that is native to Missouri and can thrive in wet soil conditions. It blooms in late summer and early fall, and its bright red flowers attract hummingbirds to the garden.
3. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflower is a perennial flower that is native to Missouri and can thrive in full sun. It blooms in mid-summer and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.
4. Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
Creeping phlox is a groundcover plant that is native to Missouri and can thrive in full sun. It blooms in early spring and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.
5. Hosta
Hosta is a perennial plant that can thrive in both sun and shade. It is known for its large, decorative leaves and can add texture and interest to a garden.
Conclusion
Knowing your planting zone is essential for any gardener in Missouri. By selecting plants that are best suited for your climate, you can ensure that your garden will thrive and flourish. Whether you’re planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs, understanding your planting zone is the first step to a successful garden.