Pacific Northwest Gardening
Just like any area of the country, the Pacific Northwest has its advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that you will never have to worry about drought -- there is always plenty of rain. You may need to keep your seeds from floating away. The Pacific Northwest stretches from southern British Columbia (including Vancouver and Victoria) down through the western parts of Washington and Oregon and into the northwestern corner of California. This narrow area has a distinct climate characterized by a long but cool growing season. The Pacific Northwest is in USDA zones seven to nine, meaning it doesn't get very cold in the winter. It is also in the AHS heat zones two to five, which indicates that through much of the area temperatures are not often above 86 degrees F in the summer. And, as before, the rain is one of the key features -- depending on your location, you'll receive 40 to 90 inches of rain a year.
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With a cool growing season and lots of clouds, look for plants that don't need full sun. Iceland poppies (pictured), bellflowers, pansies and phlox are all good choices for annuals.
Many perennials will do well. Stay away from tropical or semi-tropical plants, except in areas in zone 9. Shade-tolerant plants that like cool weather are, of course, your best bet. Try astilbe, foamflower, saxifrage and bleeding hearts in very shady areas. Lilacs, rhododendrons and other shrubs can do well where you have some sun. Water-loving plants like irises, daylilies and cardinal flower will also like the moist climate. |
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Most cool-season vegetables will flourish in the Pacific Northwest. Lettuces, peas and brassicas will do well. Warm-season veggies may need some help; if you want good-sized crops, you may need to extend the growing season with a cold frame. Berries will do well, but watch out for slugs |
External Links- General Information
- Garden.org -- National Gardening Association's description of the region.
- By State
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