One of the most significant considerations when deciding when and what to plant is to understand the environment in which a particular plant species will be able to thrive. It is essential to look at factors such as humidity, rainfall, heat, time of day plant will receive the sun’s rays, amount of shade, and type of soil.
And, likely the most critical factor of all is temperature variation, particularly how cold it gets. Coldness has always been a factor for gardeners to be aware of so in 1974 horticulturists and botanists began collecting and analyzing temperature data from around the nation. Highs and lows were recorded to give an idea of temperature variations across America. Based on this weather data the United States was divided into what is called Hardiness Zones which use a data base showing the average coldest temperatures for each region across the United States. According to Florida Gardener.Com “Plant Hardiness Zones are a general guide to help you know which plants will grow where you live because plants vary in the temperature extremes they can endure”. The nation is divided into 11 zones, 1 having the coldest temperatures and 11 having the warmest, no frost or freezing weather.
Florida is divided into four zones:
Knowing which Hardiness Zone you live in before you plant, be it flowers, vegetables, or trees is most important to the eventual success of your efforts. Knowing your Hardiness Zone can also help you in understanding what time of year is best to plant. Each type of plant has its preferred characteristics, which, if respected, will help ensure the quality garden you are hoping for. If you live in the Ocala area and would like more information about the Hardiness Zone in your area you can call Best Cut Lawns with 25 years of experience in lawn care and landscaping. Their phone number is (352) 216-0512.