Planting Zones for New Jersey: A Comprehensive Guide

New Jersey, with its diverse climatic conditions, is divided into six distinct planting zones, each with unique growing conditions for plants. Understanding these zones is crucial for successful gardening and maximizing plant growth.

Zone 4: Northernmost New Jersey

Counties: Sussex, Warren, northern Passaic

Characteristics: The coldest zone in New Jersey, with temperatures dropping below -20°F in winter. Short growing season (150-170 days) with cool summers.

Pros: Hardy plants like maple, oak, and spruce thrive. Alpine plants and succulents also do well.

Cons: Limited variety of plants due to cold temperatures.

Zone 5: Central and Western New Jersey

Counties: Bergen, Essex, Morris, Hunterdon, Somerset, Union, Middlesex, Mercer, Monmouth, Ocean, Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Salem, eastern Passaic

Characteristics: Temperatures range from -10°F to -20°F in winter. Extended growing season (170-190 days) with warm to hot summers.

Pros: Wide variety of plants, including fruits (apples, peaches, blueberries), vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers), and ornamentals (roses, hydrangeas, rhododendrons).

Cons: Watch out for pests and diseases in warm, humid summers.

Zone 6: Southern New Jersey

Counties: Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland

Characteristics: Warmest zone in New Jersey, with temperatures rarely dropping below 0°F. Long growing season (200-220 days) with hot, humid summers.

Pros: Excellent for growing a wide array of vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Tropical plants like palms and hibiscus can also thrive.

Cons: High heat and humidity can stress some plants. Water requirements may be higher.

Zone 6a: Coastal Areas

Counties: Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic, Cape May, northern Burlington, southern Camden, Gloucester, Salem

Characteristics: Slightly cooler than Zone 6b, with average winter lows between 0°F and 5°F.

Benefits: Coastal protection from cold winds and salt spray allows for a wider range of plants, including seaside plants and those that prefer milder winters.

Zone 6b: Inland Areas

Counties: Southern Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Salem, inland portions of Atlantic, Cape May

Characteristics: Warmer than Zone 6a, with average winter lows between 5°F and 10°F.

Zone 7: Extreme Southern Jersey

Counties: Cumberland (southern tip)

Characteristics: The southernmost point of New Jersey, with average winter lows between 10°F and 15°F.

Benefits: Hardy tropical plants like camellias, azaleas, and hardy palms can survive in this zone. Long growing season (220-240 days) with hot, humid summers.

Why Planting Zones Matter

Planting zones are essential for gardeners because they:

• Guiding plant selection: Choosing plants that are adapted to your zone ensures their survival and thriving.
• Preventing plant loss: Planting unsuitable plants in the wrong zone can lead to stunted growth, disease, or even death.
• Maximizing growth potential: Selecting plants that are well-suited to your zone ensures optimal growth and productivity.

Benefits of Knowing Your Planting Zone

Understanding your planting zone offers several benefits:

• Extended plant range: Knowing your zone allows you to grow a wider variety of plants that thrive in your local climate.
• Reduced plant loss: Proper plant selection minimizes plant loss due to cold damage or extreme temperatures.
• Increased plant productivity: Plants that are adapted to your zone produce better yields and bloom more profusely.
• Effective planning: Planting zones help you plan your garden layout, crop rotation, and planting times.

Comparison of Planting Zones in New Jersey

Planting Zone Map for New Jersey

[Image of a Planting Zone Map for New Jersey]

FAQs

1. How do I find my planting zone?
Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map or refer to the table above.

2. Can I grow plants from a different zone in my garden?
It is possible with protection measures like mulching, cold frames, or greenhouses.

3. Why are some plants not listed for my zone?
The USDA Zone Map is a general guideline, and microclimates within each zone can support different plants.

4. What plants can I grow in my zone?
Visit your local nursery or consult online plant databases for recommendations.

5. How do I protect my plants from cold damage?
Use mulching, row covers, or anti-desiccant sprays.

6. What is the best time to plant in my zone?
Fall (September-October) or spring (April-May) is generally ideal.

7. What is a microclimate?
A small-scale climate zone with unique conditions, such as a sheltered valley or a sunny slope.

8. What is an "interzonal" plant?
A plant hardy to two adjacent planting zones.