West Virginia , with its various topography and vary climate conditions , falls within multiple growing zones . The state ’s growing zones range from 5a to 7a , but the absolute majority of West Virginia is situated in the 6b to 7a range of a function . It is important to observe that these turn zones are determined by the United States Department of Agriculture ( USDA ) and provide worthful info for gardeners and landscaper to understand the climate and suitableness of dissimilar plants in a particular arena .
In West Virginia , the cooler growing zones can be obtain in a pocket-sized plane section of the state in the mid - easterly realm . This area typically falls within the 5a to 6b kitchen range . These cooler zona are characterized by short turn seasons and dispirited average temperature , get it challenging for some plants to thrive . However , with careful planning and option of cold - hardy miscellanea , successful gardening can still be reach .
Moving towards the central and westerly section of the state , the grow zones careen to the 6b to 7a orbit . These zones offer longer growing season and somewhat milder temperatures , provide more opportunities for a wider image of plants to expand . Gardeners in these zone can delight a variety of annual , perennials , and even some semi - tropical plants with right upkeep and attention .
One personal experience I have had in West Virginia ’s arise zones was attempt to grow tomato in the cooler 6b zone . Despite the shorter growing season and cool temperature , I found success by selecting early - maturing tomato plant varieties and utilizing techniques like take up seeds indoors and providing extra tribute with row covers . It was a rewarding experience to harvest sweet , homegrown tomatoes in a region where they are not traditionally sluttish to grow .
In addition to the specific growing zones , West Virginia ’s topography play a substantial function in microclimates within the state . The mountainous terrain creates variations in temperature , hurry , and pic to sunshine . For example , orbit at high elevation may experience cooler temperature and receive more snow compared to lower - lie regions . These microclimates further influence the suitability of sure plants and should be look at when planning a garden or landscape gardening projection .
To determine the exact growing geographical zone for a specific location in West Virginia , it’s advised to confer the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map . This mapping provides a detailed breakdown of growing zones across the entire country and can be access online or hold from local farming extension offices . It is an invaluable tool for gardener and landscapers to make informed decisions about plant selection and tutelage base on their specific farm conditions .
West Virginia ’s growing zona in the first place fall within the 6b to 7a range , with a humble section in the mid - easterly region in the cooler 5a to 6b range . These zones , along with the state ’s unique topography and microclimates , offer a diverse range of opportunity for gardener and landscape gardener to explore and produce beautiful outside spaces .
Caroline Bates
