Primary title: What Planting Zone is Tennessee?Meta description: Discover what planting zone is Tennessee and how it affects your gardening and planting decisions. Read on to learn the best plants to grow in Tennessee’s climate.
Introduction
If you’re a gardener or a plant enthusiast, you know how important it is to choose the right plants for your climate. Understanding what planting zone is Tennessee is crucial to making informed decisions about what to plant and when to plant it. In this article, we’ll explore Tennessee’s planting zones and what they mean for your gardening choices.
What is a Planting Zone?
A planting zone is a geographical area that is defined by its climate, specifically its average annual minimum temperature. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has divided the country into 13 planting zones, each with a unique temperature range. These zones help gardeners and plant enthusiasts determine which plants are best suited for their area.
Tennessee’s Planting Zones
Tennessee is divided into three planting zones: 6a, 6b, and 7a. Zone 6a has an average minimum temperature range of -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit, zone 6b has a range of -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit, and zone 7a has a range of 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
Zone 6a
Zone 6a covers the northeastern corner of Tennessee, including cities like Kingsport and Bristol. This zone is characterized by cold winters and short growing seasons. The best plants to grow in this zone include:
- Blueberries
- Apples
- Cherries
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
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Zone 6b
Zone 6b covers the central and eastern parts of Tennessee, including cities like Knoxville and Chattanooga. This zone is slightly warmer than zone 6a, with longer growing seasons. The best plants to grow in this zone include:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Green beans
- Lettuce
- Spinach
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Zone 7a
Zone 7a covers the southern part of Tennessee, including cities like Nashville and Memphis. This zone has a mild climate with a long growing season. The best plants to grow in this zone include:
- Okra
- Squash
- Watermelon
- Cucumbers
- Peas
Image Source: https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Watermelon
FAQs
What is the best time to plant in Tennessee?
The best time to plant in Tennessee depends on your location and the plant you’re growing. In general, spring and fall are the best times to plant, as the temperatures are mild and the soil is moist.
Can you grow citrus trees in Tennessee?
Citrus trees are not well-suited for Tennessee’s climate, as they require warm temperatures year-round. However, you can grow citrus trees indoors or in a greenhouse.
What is the difference between planting zones 6a and 7a?
The main difference between planting zones 6a and 7a is temperature. Zone 7a has a warmer climate with a longer growing season, while zone 6a has a colder climate with a shorter growing season.
Conclusion
Understanding what planting zone is Tennessee is essential to making informed decisions about what to plant in your garden. By selecting plants that are well-suited for your zone, you can ensure a successful and bountiful harvest. Remember to consider other factors, such as soil type and sunlight, when deciding what to plant. Happy gardening!