Do you know which Plant Hardiness Zone you’re in?

The Plant Hardiness Zone Map from the USDA is the industry standard for determining which plants are most likely to thrive in a given region. The map is based on the average annual minimum winter temperature, divided into 10-degree Fahrenheit zones. 

Here in Portland Oregon, the USDA hardiness zone is 8b (with average low temperatures from 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit). There are many microclimates within Portland, so keep in mind that the hardiness guides can be seen as recommendations. Nothing beats hands-on gardening experience when it comes to predicting which plants will make it through the winter and which will not.

Many elements influence a plant's ability to perform, including soil types, nutrients, gardening care, adequate watering, and more. Knowing what the plant requires will help you choose the best spot where it can thrive. Thankfully at The Worm Farm Portland we provide the highest quality organic soil mixtures and amendments to give your plants the best opportunity for success.

Want peace of mind knowing you made the right selection? Our NO FUSS, just add water and seed/starter is our Premium Gwen’s Mix. This is perfect for the new gardener, they won’t have to do anything ALL season, except water. This super soil mix has all the nutrition (fertilizer in organic form) your veggies will need through the season!

For non-veggies such as fruits, trees, flowers, or shrubs, our Organic Kelp/Mycorrhiza Mix is perfect if you’re starting from scratch. If you have existing soil then our Organic Wildwood Conditioner would be the better bet.

Need some ideas of what to add to your garden?

Shrubs that have been known to thrive in Portland include: 

• Hydrangeas

• Witch Hazel

• Forsythia

• Blueberries (Take a look at our Blueberry Mix)

• Azaleas

• Butterfly Bushes

• Dogwood

• Rhododendrons

Other shrubs and perennials that thrive in the full sun include:

• Daisies

• Coral Bells

• Daylilies

• Yarrow

• Lavender

• Salvias

• Geraniums