Plant with caution

CENTERVILLE, Ohio (WDTN) - We aren't the only ones noticing our mild winter, the USDA is also intrigued.  It has given Ohioians the go-ahead to plant trees and shrubbery usually seen to our south.  But there is a catch, we should plant with caution.

It has been 22 years since the USDA updated its plant hardiness zone map.   A slight shift suggests we can start planting new things, but you will be planting at your own risk.

Siebenthaler's garden center may be in winter mode but today we're thinking spring.  That's because the USDA's zone hardiness map has changed here in the Miami Valley. 

Robert Siebenthaler Vice President Siebenthaler Company says, "The zone hardiness map is a guide to help you know what you should plants could be planted in any given location."

The Dayton area used to be shaded in blue for zone five.  Now most of Ohio is filled with green for zone six.  This suggests planting foliage that can withstand temperatures down to minus ten degrees is acceptable. 

"So it doesn't mean that we can get away with a drastic change in our plant portfolio rather the designation is a little bit different and people may be a little more courageous with their plant selection," Siebenthaler explains.

The change comes because a new 30-year climate data cycle is warmer.  (Click here to see a previous weather blog about the topic) But remember not everyday is normal.  Just because the zone hardiness map says you can plant zone 6 items you still have to be careful and plant them at your own risk because if temperatures drop you can lose them. 

But if you're ambitious and want to spruce up your yard the hardiness map suggests you can plant a few different things.

Siebenthaler explains, "Your dog woods magnolias a lot of stuff that in a good season would be great but in a cold season may die back a little bit or not be as vibrant."  

Siebenthaler says even though the zone map has changed most of his inventory will be plants and shrubs with the zone five classification. 

New USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map