Question: How can I tell which plants will survive in my agricultural zone?

Answer: Most plant catalogs will give the coldness/heat zone in the cultural information adjacent to the photograph of the plant abbreviated with a Z.

When you buy a perennial (a plant that survives winter and stays with you for years), be certain it matches your hardiness zone. Here in Western NY, my zone is 4-5 which limits some plants I would dearly love to grow. Annuals grow from seed and only last for one season. Even there, cold/hot summers are a consideration. Zinnias, for instance, love hot dry summers but are prone to disease in very persistently wet days. Impatiens will curl up their toes and fade away if the nights dip below 40’s. The same goes for the popular herb basil.

In lieu of catalog information, check with your local nurseryman. They know the area best and can give invaluable information. Best to be forewarned to save you disappointment and money.