The Plant Hardiness Zones Map outlines the different areas in Canada where various types of trees, shrubs and flowers will most likely survive. It is based on the historical average climatic conditions of each area and as such is intended as a general guide. No consideration is given to the possibility of future climate change, which is extremely difficult to predict. There is currently much discussion of a general warming of climatic conditions and this is likely to be favourable to the gardener in terms of both less severe winters and possibly a longer growing season.
Some significant local factors, such as micro-topography, amount of shelter and variations in snow cover, are too small to be captured on the map but have an impact on plant survival. Often a plant that is continuously protected during winter by snow cover will grow well in a colder zone than indicated. Other variations of climate may occur in ‘islands’ of milder or more severe conditions within particular zones. |
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It is important to remember that many plants may, now and in future, thrive in colder zones than traditionally believed. Techniques of winterizing (see our Green Thumb Guide #GT309 ‘Winterizing Our Garden’) can further extend the survival range of many desirable plants.
Brampton and Toronto are considered to lie within Zone 6 and ‘downtown’ Toronto, including areas closer to Lake Ontario, is in the milder range of that zone. There are many examples of Torontonians successfully growing plants which have traditionally been considered too tender for these conditions. While Humber does not guarantee certain plants over winter because of ‘border-line’ cold hardiness, customers are nevertheless encouraged to experiment and take advantage of special conditions such as shelter, micro-climate and winter protection techniques.
Click Here for Plant Hardiness Zone by Postal Code.
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