New Jersey is a state that experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. These temperature fluctuations can make it difficult to know what plants will thrive in your garden. That’s why understanding the planting zones in NJ is so important. In this article, we will explore what planting zone is NJ and what plants are best suited for each zone.
What is a Planting Zone?
A planting zone is a geographic area that is defined by the average minimum temperature that occurs in that area. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has created a map that divides the country into 13 planting zones based on these temperatures. The map is based on the average coldest temperature of each zone and is divided into 10-degree Fahrenheit increments.
The map is used to help gardeners determine which plants are best suited for their climate. Each plant has a temperature range that it can tolerate, and by knowing your planting zone, you can choose plants that will thrive in your area.
What Planting Zone is NJ?
New Jersey is located in planting zones 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, and 8a. These zones cover a range of minimum temperatures from -10°F to 15°F. Knowing which zone you are in can help you select plants that will thrive in your garden.
Zone 6a
Zone 6a is located in the northern part of New Jersey and is characterized by minimum temperatures that range from -10°F to -5°F. Some plants that thrive in this zone include:
- Hydrangeas
- Hostas
- Lilacs
- Roses
Zone 6b
Zone 6b is located in the central part of New Jersey and is characterized by minimum temperatures that range from -5°F to 0°F. Some plants that thrive in this zone include:
- Azaleas
- Rhododendrons
- Blueberries
- Tomatoes
Zone 7a
Zone 7a is located in the southern part of New Jersey and is characterized by minimum temperatures that range from 0°F to 5°F. Some plants that thrive in this zone include:
- Crape Myrtles
- Figs
- Japanese Maples
- Peppers
Zone 7b
Zone 7b is located in the southernmost part of New Jersey and is characterized by minimum temperatures that range from 5°F to 10°F. Some plants that thrive in this zone include:
- Bougainvillea
- Banana Trees
- Citrus Trees
- Succulents
Zone 8a
Zone 8a is located in the southernmost part of New Jersey and is characterized by minimum temperatures that range from 10°F to 15°F. Some plants that thrive in this zone include:
- Bougainvillea
- Banana Trees
- Citrus Trees
- Succulents
FAQs
Can I plant outside of my planting zone?
While it’s possible to plant outside of your planting zone, it’s not recommended. Plants that are not suited for your climate may struggle to survive, which can lead to a disappointing garden. It’s best to choose plants that are well-suited for your planting zone.
How do I find out what planting zone I’m in?
You can find out what planting zone you’re in by using the USDA’s interactive planting zone map. Simply enter your zip code, and the map will show you what planting zone you’re in.
Do planting zones change?
Planting zones can change over time as a result of climate change. It’s important to stay up-to-date on any changes to your planting zone to ensure that you’re choosing plants that will thrive in your garden.
Conclusion
Understanding what planting zone is NJ is essential for any gardener. By knowing your planting zone, you can choose plants that are well-suited for your climate, which will help ensure a successful garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, knowing your planting zone is the first step to a beautiful garden.