The planting zone for Arkansas can be divided into two main zones: Zone 7 and Zone 8a. Zone 7 covers a significant portion of the state, including areas north of I-30, east of Little Rock, and everything north of I-40. On the other hand, Zone 8a has expanded from the gulf coastal plain region and now reaches as far north as Little Rock.
In Zone 7, gardeners and landscapers have a diverse range of plants to choose from. The climate in this zone is characterized by mild winters and hot summers. The average minimum winter temperature ranges from 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 to -12 degrees Celsius), making it suitable for a variety of cold-hardy plants. However, extreme cold snaps can occasionally occur, so it’s important to choose plants that can tolerate occasional sub-freezing temperatures.
Some popular plants that thrive in Zone 7 include azaleas, camellias, and dogwoods, which provide beautiful blooms in the spring. Additionally, many fruit trees, such as apples, peaches, and pears, can be successfully grown in this zone. Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers also do well in Zone 7 when planted during the appropriate times.
Moving north towards Little Rock, Zone 8a begins to take over. This zone experiences slightly milder winters compared to Zone 7, with average minimum temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 to -9 degrees Celsius). This allows for a wider selection of plants that may not thrive in colder areas of the state.
In Zone 8a, gardeners can enjoy growing a variety of plants that require a longer growing season and warmer temperatures. Subtropical plants like palm trees, citrus trees, and hibiscus can be successfully grown in this zone. Crape myrtles, a popular flowering tree, also flourishes in Zone 8a and adds a splash of color to landscapes during the summer months.
Personal Experience: I have had the opportunity to work with gardeners and landscapers in both Zone 7 and Zone 8a of Arkansas. One of the challenges we often faced in Zone 7 was selecting plants that could withstand occasional cold snaps. We found that choosing native plants or those labeled as cold-hardy was the best approach. In Zone 8a, we were able to experiment with a wider range of plants, including some tropical varieties. It was always exciting to see the vibrant colors and unique foliage that these plants brought to the landscape.
To summarize, the planting zone for Arkansas is primarily divided into Zone 7 and Zone 8a. Zone 7 covers most of the state, while Zone 8a extends northwards to include areas around Little Rock. Gardeners in Zone 7 can enjoy a wide variety of cold-hardy plants, while those in Zone 8a have the additional option of growing subtropical and tropical plants. With careful plant selection and proper care, gardeners and landscapers can create beautiful and thriving gardens in both zones.
