What Plant Zone is Seattle?

Introduction

Seattle is known for its mild, wet and somewhat cloudy weather throughout the year. This climate is advantageous for gardening and growing a variety of plants. However, the question many gardeners might ask is, what plant zone is Seattle?

Understanding Plant Zones

Plant zones are geographical areas that are defined based on climatic conditions that impact plant growth. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) created plant hardiness zones in 1960 as a guide for gardeners and farmers to determine which plants are best suited for a particular climate zone.

These zones take into account factors like average minimum temperatures of a region and soil types to help select the best plants that can thrive in that zone. Each zone is given a number, with the lower numbers indicating colder areas and higher numbers indicating warmer areas.

Seattle's Plant Zone

The USDA plant hardiness map divides the United States into 13 different zones based on their climatic conditions. Seattle falls under USDA plant hardiness zone 8b, which is known for having an average minimum temperature range of 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

This means that Seattle has a mild and moist climate that can support a wide range of plant species. Gardeners in the city can experiment with a variety of plant species, including perennials, annuals, and even some tropical plants.

Choosing the Right Plants for Seattle

When selecting plants for a Seattle garden, it's essential to choose those that can tolerate the city's mild climate and moderate rainfall levels. The following are some of the plants that can do well in Seattle's plant zone.

- Rhododendrons: These plants are a popular choice for Seattle gardens due to their showy blooms and evergreen leaves. They can tolerate Seattle's acidic soil and moisture levels.

- Hostas: These perennials do well in shade and can thrive in Seattle's mild weather and moist soils.

- Tomatoes: Seattle's summers aren't usually hot enough to grow tomatoes. However, gardeners can choose varieties that can handle cooler temperatures, such as 'Siberian,' 'Oregon Spring,' and 'Siletz.'

- Blueberries: These berries need acidic soil and consistently moist soil to grow. They thrive in Seattle's climate and can produce tasty fruits over an extended period.

Conclusion

Seattle's plant zone is 8b, which offers a mild and moist climate that can support a wide range of plant species. As a gardener, it's essential to select plants that can tolerate Seattle's unique climate and soil types. With the right plant selection, gardeners in Seattle can enjoy a beautiful garden all year round.