Maximize Your Flower Power This Spring
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the U.S. has 11 separate grow zones. Each zone is 10 degrees warmer or colder in winter than the neighboring zone. Determining the grow zone should be one of the first steps an aspiring gardener takes, since it will help determine which types of plants and flowers to grow.
If a certain flower isn’t in your grow zone that does not mean you can’t attempt to grow it, especially if it’s in a nearby grow zone. This map is meant to serve as a guide for gardeners who are curious as to where certain flowers flourish best. Also, the USDA grow zone map can be subject to change over time, especially as temperatures fluctuate. But for now, these are some of the best flowers to plant, based on region:
South: pitcher plant, crested iris, and hardy hibiscus.
Southwest: autumn sage, wine cups, and Mexican tarragon.
Midwest: spiderwort, goldenrod, and swamp milkweed.
West: compass plant, prickly pear, and yucca.
Northwest: goatsbeard, miniature hollyhock, and shooting star.
Northeast: foamflower, Jacob’s ladder, and merrybells.
In addition to the grow zones, many other factors play a role in the success of your garden. Even if a certain flower is smack in the middle of your grow zone, it still needs light, moist soil, and specific humidity levels to thrive. Keep this in mind when planning your spring garden!