Posted on July 18, 2024 by Van Becelaere Greenhouse

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently updated the plant hardiness zone map, impacting areas like Pittsburg, Kansas. The revision impacts home gardeners, farmers, and growers in the region. Today’s blog will dissect the changes, discuss the impacts on gardening and agriculture, and provide insight into how this update can affect plant selection and cultivation practices.

Understanding Plant Hardiness Zones

Before delving into the specifics of the USDA’s updated plant hardiness zone for Pittsburg, Kansas, let’s first establish a clear understanding of what plant hardiness zones are. These zones are geographical areas categorizing the average annual minimum temperatures. It’s of value for gardeners and farmers to determine which plants will likely thrive in a particular region.

The USDA’s Revised Plant Hardiness Zone for Pittsburg, Kansas

In the latest update, Pittsburg, Kansas, has experienced a shift in its plant hardiness zone classification. Previously considered zone 6, the municipality is now re-classified as grow zone 7a.

That means the average annual minimum temperature range has slightly increased, indicating a milder winter climate. Such changes have implications for plant selection and the overall horticultural practices in the area.

Implications for Home Gardeners

The updated plant hardiness zone brings new opportunities and considerations for home gardeners in Pittsburg, Kansas. With the shift to zone 7a, gardeners can now experiment with a wider variety of plant species that were previously unsuitable for the region. Thus, it is possible to plant certain fruit trees, shrubs, and perennials that require a slightly warmer climate, such as:

• Begonia and Gladiolus
• Okra and Cherry Tomatoes
• Arugula and Lettuce
• White Mulberry Tree and Peach Tree

Impact on Farmers and Growers

The revised plant hardiness zone also holds significance for farmers and commercial growers in Pittsburg, Kansas. That change opens up possibilities for cultivating previously unfeasible crops due to colder temperatures. Farmers can now explore new varieties and extend their growing seasons, potentially increasing their yield and diversifying their produce.

Van Becelaere Greenhouse: Adapting to the Changes

In light of the updated plant hardiness zone, local businesses like Van Becelaere Greenhouse in Pittsburg, KS, are actively adapting to the shifting gardening and agricultural landscape by offering an expanded range of plants and services that cater to the needs of both experienced gardeners and newcomers eager to explore the possibilities presented by the new zone classification.

Adapting to Agricultural Changes

The USDA’s updated plant hardiness zone for Pittsburg, Kansas, has brought about exciting changes for home gardeners, farmers, and growers in the region. The shift from zone 6 to zone 7a signifies a milder winter climate, providing opportunities for cultivating previously unsuitable plants and crops. As the gardening and agricultural community adapts to this update, farming diversity will increase in the coming years, sparking new interest and excitement in the industry.