Hardiness 6 - Inspiring Garden Ideas for All Gardeners
USDA Hardiness Zone 6 is characterized by winter lows of -10°F to 0°F (-23.3°C to -17.8°C). The growing season here is relatively long, providing ample time for beautiful gardens. Here are some inspiring ideas:
- Pick Suitable Plants: Choose plants hardy to Zone 6, such as black-eyed susan, hosta, and shasta Daisy. For color throughout the year, mix annuals and perennials in your garden beds.
- Deciduous and Evergreen Shrubs: Combine both for year-round interest. Lilacs, rhododendrons, and boxwood are excellent choices that thrive in this zone.
- Fruit Trees and Berries: Zone 6 is perfect for growing a variety of fruit trees, such as apple, pear, and cherry. You can also grow strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Mixed Border Gardens: Create layers of color and texture by planting tall perennials and shrubs at the back and smaller plants and ground covers in front.
- Edible Landscaping: Incorporate vegetables and herbs into your landscape design. Tomatoes, peppers, basil grow well in Zone 6.
- Native Plants: Incorporate native plants, which require less maintenance and attract beneficial wildlife.
- Four-Season Interest: Choose plants that offer visual interest in each season. This could be through flowers, berries, bark, or fall foliage.
- Extend the Season: Use cold frames or row covers to extend the growing season in both spring and fall.
Enjoy the beauty of a Zone 6 garden!
