Introduction
If you’re planning to start a garden in Pennsylvania, the first thing you need to know is what zone you’re in. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has divided the country into 11 different planting zones, each with its unique climate and growing conditions. Knowing your zone is essential as it will determine what plants are suitable for your area and when to plant them. In this article, we’ll explore what zone is PA for planting and what plants are best suited for cultivation in the state.
Understanding Planting Zones
Before we delve into what zone is PA for planting, let’s first understand what planting zones are. Planting zones are determined based on the average annual minimum temperature of an area. The USDA has divided the country into 11 zones, with Zone 1 being the coldest and Zone 11 the warmest. Each zone is further divided into sub-zones (a and b), with a being the colder half of the zone and b the warmer half.
What Zone is PA for Planting?
Pennsylvania falls under Zones 5a to 7b, with the majority of the state being in Zones 6a and 6b. Zone 5a covers the northernmost part of the state, while Zones 7a and 7b cover the southernmost region. The state’s diverse topography and climate conditions mean that certain areas may experience different weather patterns, making it important to check your specific location’s zone.
Plants Suited for Zone 5a
Zone 5a in Pennsylvania has an average minimum temperature of -20 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit. The extreme cold temperatures make it challenging to grow plants, but some hardy plants can thrive in this zone. Some of the plants that are best suited for this zone are:- Blue Spruce- Redbud- Wintergreen- Rhododendron- Yew
Plants Suited for Zone 6a
Zone 6a in Pennsylvania has an average minimum temperature of -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit. This zone has milder winters than Zone 5a, allowing for a broader range of plants to be grown. Some of the plants that are best suited for this zone are:- Cherry trees- Dogwood- Elderberry- Hydrangea- Iris
Plants Suited for Zone 6b
Zone 6b in Pennsylvania has an average minimum temperature of -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. This zone has even milder winters than Zone 6a, allowing for a more extensive range of plants to be grown. Some of the plants that are best suited for this zone are:- Blueberries- Boxwood- Holly- Magnolia- Peonies
Plants Suited for Zone 7a
Zone 7a in Pennsylvania has an average minimum temperature of 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. This zone has mild winters, allowing for a wide range of plants to be grown. Some of the plants that are best suited for this zone are:- Butterfly bush- Crape myrtle- Lavender- Rosemary- Sage
Plants Suited for Zone 7b
Zone 7b in Pennsylvania has an average minimum temperature of 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This zone has the mildest winters, allowing for a significant variety of plants to be grown. Some of the plants that are best suited for this zone are:- Citrus trees- Figs- Oleander- Pomegranate- Sweet potato vine
Conclusion
Knowing what zone is PA for planting is crucial if you want to grow a successful garden. Pennsylvania falls under Zones 5a to 7b, with the majority of the state being in Zones 6a and 6b. Each zone has its unique set of weather conditions, making it important to select plants that are best suited for your area.
FAQs
1. Can I grow tomatoes in Zone 5a in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can grow tomatoes in Zone 5a in Pennsylvania, but you need to select the right variety. Look for tomatoes that have a shorter growing season and can tolerate cooler temperatures.
2. What are some deer-resistant plants suitable for Zone 6b in Pennsylvania?
Some deer-resistant plants suitable for Zone 6b in Pennsylvania are Black-eyed Susan, Coneflower, Russian Sage, and Salvia.
3. Can I grow peaches in Zone 7a in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can grow peaches in Zone 7a in Pennsylvania. However, you need to select the right variety that can tolerate the state’s humidity.
4. What is the best time to plant vegetables in Pennsylvania?
The best time to plant vegetables in Pennsylvania varies based on your zone. Generally, the planting season begins in early spring (March to April) and ends in the fall (September to October).
5. Can I grow citrus trees in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can grow citrus trees in Pennsylvania, but they need to be grown indoors or in a greenhouse as the state’s climate is not suitable for outdoor cultivation.