This is a good question to ask because, well, there are a lot of plants… “How can I possibly make these choices?”, “What do I need to know about plants?”, “Can’t all plants grow anywhere?” These are also good questions, but don’t fret! We’re here to help!

The most important information available to determine what plants to get for your home are the plant hardiness zone map and the native species list for where you live.

Plant Hardiness Zone Map:

“The 2012 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which plants are most likely to thrive at a location. The map is based on the average annual minimum winter temperature, divided into 10-degree F zones.” - USDA

This map (available at https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov) helps you identify your growing zone by your zip code. The site/map will assign you a number & letter (either a or b) depending on where you are in the US, or world. For example, If you get 1a that would mean your annual minimum temperature average is about -60 to -55 Fahrenheit (-51.1 to -48.3 Celsius).

All of the numbers aren't that important, but what is important is knowing your growing zone (1a & 1b through 13a & 13b). Here in Charlotte, NC the growing zone is about 7a to 8a. You can use these numbers to look up plants that fit the zone of where you live. All you have to do is look up “plants that grow in zone 7a” or “plants that grow in zone 7b”. You’ll find a whole number of plants, and lists of plants, that will thrive in your zone.

Native species list:

This is pretty simple, as you're just looking at the plants that occur naturally in your area. Not all of the plants of these lists will be what you want or are looking for, but they will be plants that are well acclimated to the specific environment of your region or area. A simple search of “native plant species in Charlotte, NC” (or wherever you live) will provide you with an extensive collection of native plants in your region.

For growing in North Carolina, we definitely recommend checking out the information provided by NC State. They have an extensive database of useful information for gardening, landscaping, native species, and more. Visit their website here: https://gardening.ces.ncsu.edu

Written by Henry Barrows, Co-owner of Primavera Lawn Care