Introduction
If you’re planning to start a garden in Pennsylvania, it’s important to know the planting zone you’re in. Understanding your planting zone can help you choose the right plants, determine the best time to plant, and ensure your garden thrives. In this article, we’ll explore what planting zone Pennsylvania is in, how to determine your specific zone, and what plants are best suited for your area.
What is a Planting Zone?
A planting zone is a geographic area that is defined by a range of average minimum temperatures. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) created a map that divides North America into 11 different planting zones based on the average annual minimum temperature. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is the standard tool used by gardeners and growers to determine the appropriate plants for their location.
What Planting Zone is PA in?
Pennsylvania is located in planting zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b. The majority of the state falls within zones 6a and 6b, which have an average minimum temperature range of -10°F to -5°F and -5°F to 0°F, respectively. However, the planting zone can vary based on your specific location in the state.
What are the Characteristics of Each Planting Zone in PA?
Zone 5a
Zone 5a is located in the northernmost part of Pennsylvania, including cities like Erie and Warren. This zone has an average minimum temperature range of -20°F to -15°F and experiences cold winters and short growing seasons.
Zone 5b
Zone 5b is located in the northwestern part of Pennsylvania, including cities like Bradford and Meadville. This zone has an average minimum temperature range of -15°F to -10°F and also experiences cold winters and short growing seasons.
Zone 6a
Zone 6a is located in central and southeastern Pennsylvania, including cities like Harrisburg and Allentown. This zone has an average minimum temperature range of -10°F to -5°F and experiences cold winters with longer growing seasons than zones 5a and 5b.
Zone 6b
Zone 6b is located in the southern part of Pennsylvania, including cities like Philadelphia and Lancaster. This zone has an average minimum temperature range of -5°F to 0°F and also experiences cold winters with longer growing seasons than zones 5a and 5b.
Zone 7a
Zone 7a is located in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania, including cities like West Chester and Doylestown. This zone has an average minimum temperature range of 0°F to 5°F and experiences mild winters with longer growing seasons than zones 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b.
Zone 7b
Zone 7b is located in the extreme southeastern part of Pennsylvania, including cities like Philadelphia and Wilmington. This zone has an average minimum temperature range of 5°F to 10°F and experiences mild winters with longer growing seasons than zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, and 7a.
How to Determine Your Planting Zone in PA
To determine your specific planting zone in Pennsylvania, you can use the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. You can enter your zip code on the USDA website to find your zone, or you can refer to the map to determine your zone based on your location in the state.
What Plants are Best Suited for Each Zone in PA?
The plants that are best suited for each zone in Pennsylvania will vary based on the average minimum temperature range and growing season. Here are some examples of plants that are well-suited for each zone:
Zone 5a
Some plants that are well-suited for zone 5a include apple trees, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. These plants tolerate cold winters and short growing seasons.
Zone 5b
Some plants that are well-suited for zone 5b include blackberries, cherries, peaches, and pears. These plants also tolerate cold winters and short growing seasons.
Zone 6a
Some plants that are well-suited for zone 6a include asparagus, broccoli, lettuce, and spinach. These plants can handle the colder winters but have longer growing seasons than zones 5a and 5b.
Zone 6b
Some plants that are well-suited for zone 6b include beans, corn, cucumbers, and tomatoes. These plants can handle the colder winters but have longer growing seasons than zones 5a and 5b.
Zone 7a
Some plants that are well-suited for zone 7a include eggplant, peppers, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes. These plants can handle the mild winters and longer growing seasons than zones 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b.
Zone 7b
Some plants that are well-suited for zone 7b include okra, peanuts, southern peas, and watermelon. These plants can handle the mild winters and longer growing seasons than zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, and 7a.
Conclusion
Knowing your planting zone is important when starting a garden in Pennsylvania. Understanding the characteristics of each zone, how to determine your specific zone, and what plants are best suited for your area can help ensure your garden thrives. By using the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and selecting the appropriate plants for your zone, you can enjoy a successful and fruitful garden.
FAQs
1. Can I plant outside my zone in Pennsylvania?While it’s possible to plant outside your zone, it’s generally not recommended. Plants that are not suited for your zone may not survive the winter or may not produce well during the growing season.2. How do I protect my plants during the winter in Pennsylvania?To protect your plants during the winter in Pennsylvania, you can use mulch to insulate the soil and cover plants with blankets or tarps during extreme cold spells.3. Can I grow citrus trees in Pennsylvania?Citrus trees are not well-suited for Pennsylvania’s climate and are not recommended for planting in the state.4. What is the best time to plant in Pennsylvania?The best time to plant in Pennsylvania varies based on your specific zone and the type of plant you’re growing. Generally, planting in the spring after the risk of frost has passed is recommended.5. Are there any plants that can grow in all zones in Pennsylvania?While there are some plants that can tolerate a range of planting zones, most plants have specific zone requirements. It’s important to choose plants that are well-suited for your specific zone to ensure the best chance of success.