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Middle South - Inspiring Garden Ideas for all Gardeners

The Middle South region of the United States includes parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. It offers gardeners a unique environment for cultivating a wide array of plants. The region’s climate and geography enable a diverse gardening experience. 

Hardiness and Heat Zones

The Middle South experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The region is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7, and AHS Heat Zones range from 3 to 8. To ensure plant survival and growth, gardeners should choose plants suitable for these zones.

Garden Styles

Garden styles in the Middle South are versatile and varied, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Traditional Southern gardens often feature formal elements, such as symmetrical layouts and ornamental structures. However, many gardeners in this region also appreciate informal, cottage-style gardens that showcase native plants and support local wildlife. Edible landscaping, which integrates fruits, vegetables, and herbs into ornamental designs, is another popular trend.

Popular Plants The Middle South is home to an array of iconic plants that thrive in the region’s climate:

  • Camellia (Camellia spp.) – A classic Southern shrub, camellias boast glossy, evergreen leaves and large, showy flowers that bloom from fall to spring.
  • Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) – This iconic evergreen tree features glossy, dark green leaves and large, fragrant white flowers.
  • Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) – Known for their intoxicating fragrance, gardenias are evergreen shrubs with creamy-white, rose-like flowers.
  • Hosta (Hosta spp.) – A shade-loving perennial with lush, textured leaves, hostas are a popular choice for adding interest to shady garden areas.
  • Coneflower (Echinacea spp.) – A native perennial with daisy-like flowers, coneflowers are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and attract pollinators.
Southern states, Southern gardening, Southern garden, Southern Climate, Southern Region
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    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

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