Gardening in the Pacific Northwest Region

The Pacific Northwest region typically includes the states of Oregon, Washington as well as Northern California. From a climate standpoint, in relation to gardening, the Pacific Northwest region has been extended by the National Gardening Association also to include southern British Columbia of Canada.

According to this map of the Pacific Northwest, the region lies in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7 through 9 and in AHS Heat Zones 1 through 6. Stretching over a long territory expanse, the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains influence the Pacific Northwest climate. Generally speaking, this region enjoys two main distinct seasons characterized by mild but very wet winters and cool but very dry summers.

The frost-free growing season covers approximately days, with the last frost dates from mid-April and the first frost dates starting about mid-November. Gardeners in this region can grow more perennial varieties than gardeners in any other part of North America. This region is famous for its abundant production of tulips, daffodils, dahlias, garden lilies, and many more perennial plants. Some plants grown as annual plants in other parts of the country (e.g. Iceland poppies or carnations) will happily overwinter in the Pacific Northwest and re-bloom the following year. An Eden for plants!

However, carefully selecting plants suited to the Pacific Northwest climate will be key to success. Plants must be drought tolerant to cope with the summer months with little or no rain. They will also have to survive the regular cold rainfall in winter and should be resistant to fungal diseases (as a result of the high humidity).

Review our detailed plant selection guides for the Pacific Norwest region and find the best bulbs, perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses or trees for your garden.

Alternatively, find exciting garden ideas for your geographic area.