get growing

zone map

we have included two different zone maps to aid in plant selection and garden plans.

One is a plant hardiness zone map which is the one most people associate with gardening.

The second map shows Canada's ecozones which are useful in giving ideas of the native vegetation and wildlife associated with your area.

The descriptions below will help you decide which map holds the information you are interested in

plant hardiness zone map

the hardiness or climatic zone map of Canada divides the country into ten zones distinguished by climate. These range from 0 in the coldest region to 9 in the mildest region. The zones are rated based on a number of climatic conditions, most notably the coldest temperature reached and the length of the growing season. Gardeners use this map to establish which plants will survive in their "zone" based on the rating the plant has received. If your garden is in zone 5, for example, you could choose plants rated from zone 0 to zone 5.

One limitation of the hardiness zone map is that any zone can have areas within it which merit a different rating based on their local conditions or microclimate. In other words, you may have an area within your garden which deserves a higher rank due to more localized conditions. Perhaps shrubs protect one corner of your yard from cooling winds. Or maybe your property is close to a body of water which moderates the local climate. These conditions could allow plants of a higher zone to survive in certain areas of your garden.

Remember, there are many conditions which need to be considered in choosing plants for your garden. Hardiness rating is just one, and not always the most important. If the soil conditions are not right, or if there is too much or too little moisture, this could have a more crucial effect on whether a particular plant thrives in a specific part of your garden.

The best way to ensure a plant is hardy in your area is to choose one which is native to your local region. A native plant will have evolved to flourish in local climatic conditions.

Click here to access the Plant Hardiness Zone Map

ecozone map

ecozones represent areas of the country which can be defined by their general living and non- living characteristics. Living characteristics include vegetation and animals (including humans), while non-living characteristics include such features as climate, soil, water, and general landforms. An ecozone, therefore, would be an area of the country which can be distinguished from other areas based on these qualities. Canada has been divided into 15 terrestrial ecozones.

Knowing your ecozone can help you to recognize the natural features, including native plants and animals, of your area.

Click here to access the Ecozone Map