Its Getting Hot In Here
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Have you heard our hardiness zone has changed? In the dynamic world of gardening, understanding hardiness zones is crucial for successful harvests. Recently, there has been a noticeable shift in hardiness zones across various regions, and for many, this change marks a new chapter.
The map on the left below shows our hardiness zone from 2012. The one on the right is from 2023. You can see the drastic shift!
What is a hardiness zone? The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) assigns these zones based on average minimum winter temperatures. Each zone represents a 10°F range, allowing gardeners to choose plants that are likely to thrive in their specific climate. Climate change is one of the primary factors influencing the adjustment of hardiness zones. As temperatures rise globally, zones are shifting northward, impacting the suitability of certain plants in different regions. The transition from Hardiness Zone 5b to 6a signifies a milder winter climate. This is good news for gardeners in our area since it increases the amount of plants that can thrive in our area, but bad news for our environment!
How else does this effect us?
Extended Growing Season: The change in hardiness zones often comes hand in hand with an extended growing season. We can take advantage of this longer period to cultivate more crops and experiment with new varieties.
Challenges and Opportunities: While the transition brings larger variety, it also poses challenges. We may need to adapt our gardening practices to the warmer temperatures, selecting plants that are better suited to the new climate. Additionally, pest and disease patterns may shift, including those essential pollinators!
The transition from Hardiness Zone 5b to 6a is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of our climate. It also puts a focus on the need for a more natural and sustainable way of living. Embrace the change, stay vigilant, experiment with new plants, and adapt your gardening practices to make the most of the shifting landscape. Happy gardening in Zone 6a!