USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which perennial plants are most likely to thrive at a location. The map is based on the average annual extreme minimum winter temperature, displayed as 10-degree F zones and 5-degree F half zones. The USDA released a new map for 2023, which takes into account changes in winter low temperatures over the last 30 years. New data indicates a general warming trend in winter temperatures, which has resulted in some changes in zone categorization. The USDA plant hardiness zones are to be used as a general guideline for planting. Gardeners should be aware that there are other factors that will affect the hardiness of a plant which includes wind, soil type, humidity, snow moisture and how plants are incorporated into a landscape.

From planthardiness.ars.usda.gov & www.gardeningknowhow.com/planting-zones/maryland-planting-zones.htm

The USDA plant hardiness zone map for Maryland is available online by clicking here. You can use the map's Quick Zip Code Search box to find your plant hardiness zone by entering your zip code.

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2024 Perennial Plant Association Plant of the Year

Phlox paniculata 'Jeana'

PPA (Perennial Plant Association)

The Perennial Plant of the Year® (PPOY) program began in 1990 to showcase a perennial that is a standout among its competitors. Perennials chosen are suitable for a wide range of growing climates, require low maintenance, have multiple-season interest, and are relatively pest/disease-free. If you are looking for an excellent perennial for your next landscape project or something reliable for your gardens, make sure to check out the Perennial Plant of the Year® archive list.

Since the Perennial Plant of the Year® was introduced in 1990, the Perennial Plant Association has received frequent inquiries about how the Perennial Plant of the Year® is selected. The selection process is quite simple – PPA members vote for the Perennial Plant of the Year® each summer. At that time, in addition to the vote, each member may also nominate up to two plants for future consideration. The Perennial Plant of the Year® committee reviews the nominated perennials (more than 400 different perennials are often nominated each year) and selects 3 or 4 perennials to be placed on the ballot.

Nominations generally need to satisfy the following criteria: 

• Suitability for a wide range of climatic conditions  
• Low-maintenance requirements  
• Relative pest- and disease-resistance  
• Ready availability in the year of promotion  
• Multiple seasons of ornamental interest

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2024 American Hosta Growers Hosta of the Year

Hosta 'Mini Skirt'

AHGA (American Hosta Growers Association)

With the increasing number of hosta cultivars being introduced each year it is increasingly difficult for nursery owners and gardeners to choose just the right hostas for their sales areas and gardens. To this end the American Hosta Growers Association established the AHGA Hosta of the Year in 1996. It is selected by a vote of AHGA members. Award winners are hostas that are good garden plants in all regions of the country and are widely available in sufficient supply.

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We Recommend:

Leafgro©

Leafgro© is a superior quality compost used extensively by the landscape industry and homeowners as a source of humus for soil improvement. Leafgro© is an outstanding example of recycling at its best. By composting leaves and grass clippings that would have normally been disposed of in a landfill, the Maryland Environmental Service converts organic wastes into a valuable resource.

Espoma Bio-tone Starter Plus©

All Natural Plant Food Enhanced With Bacteria, and Mycorrhizae.

• Grows larger root mass to help plants establish fast.
• Promotes bigger blooms.
• Reduces transplant loss.