Introduction
Missouri is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is known for its diverse climate, ranging from humid subtropical in the southeastern part of the state to humid continental in the northern part. This variation in climate affects the types of plants that can be grown in Missouri. In this article, we will discuss the planting zones in Missouri and what plants are suitable for each zone.
What are Planting Zones?
Planting zones are determined by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are based on average minimum winter temperatures. These zones help gardeners and farmers determine which plants are most likely to thrive in their area. The USDA divides the United States into 13 planting zones, ranging from Zone 1 (coldest) to Zone 13 (warmest).
Missouri’s Planting Zones
Missouri is divided into four planting zones: Zone 5b, Zone 6a, Zone 6b, and Zone 7a. The northern part of the state is in Zone 5b, which has an average minimum winter temperature of -15 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. The central part of the state is in Zone 6a, which has an average minimum winter temperature of -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit. The southern part of the state is in Zone 6b, which has an average minimum winter temperature of -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The southeastern part of the state is in Zone 7a, which has an average minimum winter temperature of 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
What Plants are Suitable for Each Zone?
Zone 5b
Zone 5b is the coldest planting zone in Missouri, with the lowest average minimum winter temperatures. Plants that can tolerate this zone include apple trees, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, grapes, peaches, pears, plums, raspberries, strawberries, asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, garlic, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, potatoes, radishes, spinach, and turnips.
Zone 6a
Zone 6a has slightly warmer average minimum winter temperatures than Zone 5b. Plants that can tolerate this zone include the same fruits and vegetables as Zone 5b, as well as beets, chard, cucumbers, eggplant, melons, peppers, pumpkins, squash, and tomatoes.
Zone 6b
Zone 6b has even warmer average minimum winter temperatures than Zone 6a. Plants that can tolerate this zone include the same fruits and vegetables as Zones 5b and 6a, as well as beans, corn, okra, and sweet potatoes.
Zone 7a
Zone 7a has the warmest average minimum winter temperatures in Missouri. Plants that can tolerate this zone include the same fruits and vegetables as Zones 5b, 6a, and 6b, as well as figs, kiwis, and persimmons.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Missouri’s planting zones range from Zone 5b in the north to Zone 7a in the southeast. Each zone has different average minimum winter temperatures and therefore different plants that can thrive in that zone. By knowing which planting zone you are in, you can choose the plants that are most likely to thrive in your area and have a successful and fruitful garden.
FAQs
1. Can I grow citrus trees in Missouri?
No, citrus trees are not recommended for Missouri’s planting zones because they require warmer winter temperatures than Missouri can provide.
2. Can I grow avocados in Missouri?
No, avocados are not recommended for Missouri’s planting zones because they require warmer winter temperatures than Missouri can provide.
3. Can I grow blueberries in Zone 7a?
Yes, blueberries can be grown in Zone 7a.
4. Can I grow tomatoes in Zone 5b?
Yes, tomatoes can be grown in Zone 5b, but they may require extra protection from the cold.
5. Can I grow peaches in Zone 6b?
Yes, peaches can be grown in Zone 6b, but they may require extra protection from the cold.