Latest from Gardening Know How in Zone-4

Cold Hardy Wildflowers: Choosing Wildflowers For Zone 4 Landscapes

Liz Baessler — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 13:00:33 +0000

Wildflowers are a key part of many gardens, and with good reason. They’re beautiful; they’re self-sufficient; and as long as they’re grown in the proper place, they’re good for the environment. How do you know which wildflowers will grow in your climate? Keep reading to learn more about growing wildflowers in zone 4 and selecting cold hardy wildflowers that will stand up to zone 4 winters.

Selecting Wildflowers for Zone 4 Gardens

Before delving too far into wildflower selection, it’s important to understand that USDA zones are based on temperature, and not necessarily on geography. A flower that’s native in one part of zone 4 may be invasive in another part. This is especially important to remember when planting wildflowers, as they are usually self-seeding (and more likely to spread) and because they are often meant to be low maintenance and able to survive in their native environment with very little intervention. You should check with your local extension office to learn more about native wildflowers before sowing any seeds. With that disclaimer, here are some zone 4 wildflower varieties that ought to thrive in your zone.

Zone 4 Wildflower Varieties

Golden Tickseed – Hardy all the way down to zone 2, this flowering coreopsis plant reaches 2 to 4 feet (61 cm. to 1 m.) in height, produces stunning yellow and maroon flowers, and self-sows very readily. Columbine – Hardy to zone 3, columbine plants produce delicate, colorful flowers that are very attractive to pollinators. Prairie Sage – A 4 foot tall (1 m.) perennial that produces delicate sky-blue flowers in late summer and early fall, prairie sage is hardy to zone 4. Spiderwort – This perennial has attractive grassy foliage and showy, three petaled purple flowers. Spiderwort is a great plant for adding coverage to much needed locations of the garden. Goldenrod – A classic wildflower, goldenrod puts out fluffy plumes of bright yellow flowers that are great for pollinators. Milkweed – Famous for attracting monarch butterflies, milkweed will grow in a wide variety of conditions and produces beautiful clusters of flowers. New England Aster – A self-sowing, clumping plant that produces a bounty of colorful, daisy-like flowers, New England aster is great for attracting goldfinches.

Zone 4 Roses – Learn About Growing Roses In Zone 4 Gardens

Stan V. Griep — Thu, 18 May 2017 00:07:47 +0000

Many of us love roses but not everyone has the ideal climate for growing them. That said, with adequate protection and proper selection, it is totally possible to have beautiful rosebushes in zone 4 regions.

Growing Roses in Zone 4

There are several rosebushes that are not only listed for zone 4 and lower, but many that have been tested to make sure they are hardy enough to grow nicely there. The Rugosa rosebushes developed by F.J Grootendorst are hardy enough for even zone 2b. Another would be the rosebushes of Mr. Georges Bugnet, who brought us the wonderful Therese Bugnet rose.

When looking for roses for zone 4, take a look at the Agriculture Canada Explorer and Parkland series, as they are known for their hardiness. There are also the Dr. Griffith Buck rosebushes, commonly referred to as “Buck Roses.”

Roses hardy to zone 4 also include “own root” roses, which tend to fair far better than the grafted roses. Some grafted roses can survive and do well; however, they must be protected well during the winter months. If you live in zone 4 or lower and desire to grow roses, you really need to do your homework and study the rosebushes you are considering. Check on any test growing programs they have been through to show their hardiness. Learning more about your roses will come in handy in getting the most success out of them.

Zone 4 Roses

Nurseries that are known to carry many of the hard-to-find species and old garden roses hardy to zone 4, and even zone 3, include High Country Roses in Denver, Colorado (USA) and Roses of Yesterday and Today, located in California (USA). Feel free to tell them that Stan ‘the Rose Man’ sent you their way.

Here is a listing of some rosebushes that should do well in zone 4 rose beds or garden:

Rosa J.F. Quadra
Rosa Rotes Meer
Rosa Adelaide Hoodless
Rosa Belle Poitevine
Rosa Blanc Double de Coubert
Rosa Capt. Samuel Holland
Rosa Champlain
Rosa Charles Albanel
Rosa Cuthbert Grant
Rosa Green Ice
Rosa Never Alone Rose
Rosa Grootendorst Supreme
Rosa Harison’s Yellow
Rosa Henry Hudson
Rosa John Cabot
Rosa Louise Bugnet
Rosa Marie Bugnet
Rosa Pink Grootendorst
Rosa Prairie Dawn
Rosa Reta Bugnet
Rosa Stanwell Perpetual
Rosa Winnipeg Parks
Rosa Golden Wings
Rosa Morden Amorette
Rosa Morden Blush
Rosa Morden Cardinette
Rosa Morden Centennial
Rosa Morden Fireglow
Rosa Morden Ruby
Rosa Morden Snowbeauty
Rosa Morden Sunrise
Rosa Nearly Wild
Rosa Prairie Fire
Rosa William Booth
Rosa Winchester Cathedral
Rosa Hope for Humanity
Rosa Country Dancer
Rosa Distant Drums

There are some nice zone 4 climbing rose varieties from David Austin Roses:

The Generous Gardener
Claire Austin
Teasing Georgia
Gertrude Jekyll
Other climbing roses for zone 4 would be:
Ramblin’ Red
Seven Sisters (a rambler rose that can be trained like a climber)
Aloha
America
Jeanne Lajoie

Cold Hardy Vegetables – Tips On Planting A Vegetable Garden In Zone 4

Darcy Larum — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 21:00:41 +0000

In zone 4, where Mother Nature rarely follows a calendar, I glance out my window at the bleak landscape of endless winter and I think it sure doesn’t seem like spring is coming.

Yet, little vegetable seeds stir to life in seed trays in my kitchen, anticipating the warm soil and sunny garden they will eventually grow in. Spring will eventually come and, as always, summer and a bountiful harvest will follow. Read on for information on planting a vegetable garden in zone 4.

Zone 4 Vegetable Gardening

Spring can be short-lived in U.S. hardiness zone 4. Some years it can seem like you blinked and missed spring, as cold freezing rain and snow showers seem to turn overnight into hot, muggy summer weather. With an expected last frost date of June 1 and a first frost date of October 1, the growing season for zone 4 vegetable gardens can be short too.

Starting seeds indoors, properly utilizing cold crops and succession planting can help you get the most out of the limited growing season. With big box stores now selling vegetable seeds as early as January, it's easy to get prematurely excited for spring.

However, the general rule of thumb in zone 4 is to not plant vegetables and annuals outdoors until Mother’s Day, or May 15. Some years plants may even get nipped by frost after May 15, so in spring always pay attention to frost advisories and cover plants as needed.

While you shouldn’t plant them outdoors until mid-May, vegetable plants that need a long growing season, and more sensitive to frost damage, can be started from seed indoors 6-8 weeks before the expected last frost date. These include:

When to Plant Vegetables in Zone 4

Cold hardy vegetables, usually called cold crops or cool-season plants, are the exception to the Mother's Day planting rule. Plants that tolerate and even prefer the cool weather can be planted outdoors in zone 4 as early as mid-April. These types of vegetables include:

Acclimating them in an outdoor cold frame can increase their chance of survival and ensure a rewarding harvest. Some of these same cool-season plants can be planted in succession to give you two harvests. Quick maturing plants that are excellent for succession planting are:

These vegetables can be planted between April 15 and May 15 and will be harvestable by mid-summer, and a second crop can be planted around July 15 for an autumn harvest.

Zone 4 Seed Starting: Learn When To Start Seeds In Zone 4

Darcy Larum — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 21:00:04 +0000

Winter can quickly lose its charm after Christmas, especially in frigid areas like U.S. hardiness zone 4 or lower. The endless gray days of January and February can make it seem like winter will last forever. Filled with the hopeless, barrenness of winter, you may wander into a home improvement or big box store and find delight in their early displays of garden seeds. So, when exactly is too early for starting seeds in zone 4? Naturally, this depends on what you are planting. Continue reading to learn when to start seeds in zone 4.

Zone 4 Seed Starting Indoors

In zone 4, we can experience frost sometimes as late as May 31st and as early as October 1st. This short growing season can mean that some plants will need to be started from seed indoors several weeks before the last expected frost date in order to reach their full potential before autumn. When to start these seeds indoors depends on the plant. Below are different plants and their typical planting times indoors.

10 to 12 Weeks Before Last Frost

Vegetables

Herbs/Flowers

6 to 9 Weeks Before Last Frost

Vegetables

Herbs/Flowers

3 to 5 Weeks Before Last Frost

Vegetables

Herbs/Flowers

When to Start Seeds in Zone 4 Outdoors

Outdoor seed planting time in zone 4 is usually between April 15th and May 15th, depending on the specific plant. Since spring in zone 4 can be unpredictable, pay attention to frost advisories in your area and cover plants as needed. Keeping a seed journal or seed calendar can help you learn from your mistakes or successes year after year. Below are some plant seeds that can be sown directly in the garden from mid-April to mid-May in zone 4. Vegetables

Herbs/Flowers

Cold Hardy Fruit Trees – What Fruit Trees Grow In Zone 4 Gardens

Teo Spengler — Wed, 11 Jan 2017 18:00:03 +0000

Cold climates have their charm, but gardeners moving to a zone 4 location may fear that their fruit-growing days are over. Not so. If you choose carefully, you’ll find lots of fruit trees for zone 4. For more information about what fruit trees grow in zone 4, keep on reading.

About Cold Hardy Fruit Trees

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has developed a system dividing the country into plant hardiness zones based on coldest annual temperatures. Zone 1 is the coldest, but regions labeled zone 4 are also chilly, getting down to negative 30 degrees F. (-34 C.). That’s pretty cold weather for a fruit tree, you may think. You would be right. Lots of fruit trees are not happy and productive in zone 4. Yet, surprise: lots of fruit trees are! The trick to fruit tree growing in cold climates is to buy and plant only cold hardy fruit trees. Look for zone information on the label or ask at the garden store. If the label says, “fruit trees for zone 4,” you are good to go.

What Fruit Trees Grow in Zone 4?

Commercial fruit growers generally only set up their orchards in zone 5 and above. However, fruit tree growing in cold climates is far from impossible. You’ll find dozens of zone 4 fruit trees of many different kinds available. Apples Apple trees are among the hardiest of cold hardy fruit trees. Look for the hardy cultivars, all of which make perfect zone 4 fruit trees. The hardiest of these, even thriving in zone 3, include:

You can also plant:

If you want an heirloom cultivar, go for Gravenstein or Yellow Transparent. Plums If you are looking for a fruit tree growing in cold climates that isn’t an apple tree, try an American plum tree cultivar. European plum cultivars only survive to zone 5, but some of the American varieties thrive in zone 4. These include the cultivars:

Alderman
Superior
Waneta

Cherries It’s hard to find sweet cherry cultivars that like the chill of being zone 4 fruit trees, although Rainier does well in this zone. However, sour cherries, delightful in pies and jams, do best as fruit trees for zone 4. Look for:

Meteor
North Star
Surefire
Sweet Cherry Pie

Pears Pears are iffier when it comes to being zone 4 fruit trees. If you want to plant a pear tree, try one of the hardiest European pears like:

Flemish Beauty
Luscious
Patten

Zone 4 Cherry Trees: Choosing And Growing Cherries In Cold Climates

Teo Spengler — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 01:00:25 +0000

Everybody loves cherry trees, with their frothy ballerina blossoms in spring followed by red, luscious fruit. However, gardeners in cooler climates might doubt that they can successfully grow cherries. Do hardy cherry tree varieties exist? Are there cherry trees that grow in zone 4? Read on for tips on growing cherries in cold climates.

Growing Zone 4 Cherry Trees

The best and most prolific fruit-growing regions in the country offer at least 150 frost-free days to allow the fruit to mature, and a USDA hardiness zone of 5 or above. Obviously, zone 4 gardeners can’t provide those optimal growing conditions. In zone 4, winter temperatures dip to 30 degrees below zero (-34 C.). Climates that get very cold in the winter—like those in USDA zone 4—also have shorter growing seasons for fruit crops. This makes growing cherries in cold climates particularly challenging. The first, best step toward successfully raising fruit in this cold-winter region of the country is finding cherry trees hardy to zone 4. Once you start looking, you’ll find more than one hardy cherry tree varieties. Here are a couple of tips for those growing cherries in cold climates: Plant zone 4 cherry trees on south-facing slopes in full sun and wind-protected locations. Be sure your soil offers excellent drainage. Like other fruit trees, cherry trees hardy to zone 4 will not grow in soggy soil.

Hardy Cherry Tree Varieties

Start your search for cherry trees that grow in zone 4 by reading the tags on the plants at your local garden store. Most fruit trees sold in commerce identify the plants’ hardiness by specifying the zones they grow in. One to look for is Rainier, a semi-dwarf cherry tree that grows to 25 feet (8 m.) high. It qualifies for the category “zone 4 cherry trees” since it thrives in USDA zones 4 through 8. The sweet, juicy cherries mature in late July. If you prefer sour to sweet cherries, Early Richmond is one of the most prolific tart cherry producers among zone 4 cherry trees. The abundant crop – mature a full week before other tart cherries—is gorgeous and great for pies and jams. “Sweet Cherry Pie” is another of the cherry trees hardy to zone 4. Here’s a small tree you can be sure will survive zone 4 winters because it even thrives in zone 3. When you are looking for cherry trees that grow in cold climates, “Sweet Cherry Pie” belongs on the short-list.

Zone 4 Blueberries – Types Of Cold Hardy Blueberry Plants

Amy Grant — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 18:02:47 +0000

Blueberries are sometimes overlooked as options in a colder USDA zone and, if they were grown, were almost certainly hardy low-bush varieties. That’s because at one time it was almost impossible to grow high bush blueberries (Vacciium corymbosum), but new cultivars have made growing blueberries in zone 4 a reality. This gives the home gardener more options. The following article contains information on cold hardy blueberry plants, in particular, those suitable as zone 4 blueberries.

About Blueberries for Zone 4

Blueberry bushes need a sunny location and well-drained acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5). With proper care they can live for 30 to 50 years. There are a few different types: low-bush, mid-height, and high bush blueberries. Low-bush blueberries are low growing bushes with plentiful small fruit and are the hardiest while mid-height varieties are taller and a little less hardy. High bush is the least hardy of the three, although as mentioned, there are recent introductions of this type suitable for cold hardy blueberry plants. High-bush varieties are classified by either early, mid, or late season. This indicates the time when the fruit will ripen and is an important factor to consider when choosing blueberries for zone 4. Varieties that bloom earlier in the spring and fruit earlier in the summer can be damaged by frost. Thus, gardeners in zones 3 and 4 are more likely to opt for mid to late season varieties of high bush blueberries.

Zone 4 Blueberry Cultivars

Some blueberries can produce crops on their own and some need cross-pollination. Even those that can self-pollinate will bear larger and more plentiful fruit if placed near another blueberry. The following plants are zone 4 blueberry cultivars to try. Included are cultivars that are suited to USDA zone 3, as those will no doubt thrive in zone 4. Bluecrop is the most popular high bush, mid-season blueberry with excellent yields of medium sized berries of good flavor. This variety can get rangy, but it has great disease resistance and is very winter hardy in zone 4. Blueray is another high bush type with medium sized berries that store beautifully. It is moderately resistant to disease and also suited to zone 4. Bonus is a mid to late season, high bush cultivar. It produces the largest berries of all the cultivars on vigorous bushes suited to zone 4. Chippewa is a mid-high, mid-season bush that is a bit taller than other midsize cultivars such as Northblue, Northcoutry, or Northsky with sweeter, larger berries and is hardy to zone 3. Duke is an early high bush blueberry that blooms late yet produces an early crop. The medium sized fruit is sweet and has an excellent shelf like. It is suited to zone 4. Elliot is a late season, high bush cultivar that produces medium to large berries that can be tart because they turn blue before they are ripe. This cultivar is suited to zone 4 and has an upright habit with a dense center that should be pruned to allow for air circulation. Jersey (an older cultivar, 1928) is a late season, high bush blueberry that is easily grown in most soil types. It also produces a dense center of growth that should be pruned out to promote air circulation and is hardy to zone 3. Northblue, Northcountry, and Northland are all mid-height blueberry cultivars that are hardy to USDA zone 3. Northblue is an early producer and is most hardy with a consistent snow cover. Northcountry berries ripen in the early to the middle part of blueberry season, have a compact habit, and require another blueberry of the same species to set fruit. Northland is a very hardy blueberry cultivar with medium sized berries. This early mid-season cultivar tolerates poor soils and does best with a good annual pruning. Patriot, a highbush, early to mid-season blueberry produces medium to large berries that are sweet and mildly acidic. Patriot is suited to zone 4. Polaris, a mid-height, early season cultivar has excellent berries and will self-pollinate but does better when planted with other northern cultivars. It is hardy to zone 3. Superior is an early, mid-height cultivar whose fruit matures one week later in the season than other blueberries in northern regions. It is hardy to zone 4. Toro has large, firm fruit that hang like grapes. This mid-season, high bush variety is hardy to zone 4. All of the above cultivars are suited for growing in zone 4. Depending upon the topography of your landscape, your microclimate, and the amount of protection given to the plants, there may even be some zone 5 plants that are suitable for your region. If a late spring frost threatens, cover your blueberries overnight with blankets or burlap.

Zone 4 Magnolias: Tips On Growing Magnolia Trees In Zone 4

Teo Spengler — Wed, 04 Jan 2017 14:02:59 +0000

Do magnolias make you think of the south, with its warm air and blue skies? You’ll find that these gracious trees with their elegant flowers are hardier than you think. Some cultivars even qualify as zone 4 magnolias. Read on for information about cold hardy magnolia trees.

Hardy Magnolia Trees

Lots of gardeners think of the spreading magnolia as a tender plant that only thrives under southern skies. The truth is very different. Cold hardy magnolia trees exist and thrive even in zone 4 backyards. U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 4 includes some of the coldest regions of the nation. Yet, you’ll find a number of magnolia trees in zone 4 gardens. The key to growing magnolia trees in zone 4 is to pick cold hardy magnolia trees.

Magnolias for Zone 4

When you go shopping for magnolias for zone 4, it’s critical to select cultivars labeled as zone 4 magnolias. Here are a few to consider: You can’t beat the star magnolia (Magnolia kobus var. stellata) for chilly areas. It’s one of the best zone 4 magnolias, readily available in nurseries in the northern states. This cultivar stays gorgeous all season, budding in spring then showing off its star-shaped, fragrant flowers all summer. Star magnolia is one of the smaller magnolias for zone 4. The trees grow to 10 feet (3 m.) in both directions. The leaves put on a yellow or rust-colored show in autumn. Two other great magnolias for zone 4 are cultivars 'Leonard Messel' and 'Merrill.' Both of these are cold hardy crosses of the magnolia kobus that grows as a tree and its shrub variety, stellata. These two zone 4 magnolias are both larger than star, getting 15 feet (5 m.) tall or more. ‘Leonard Messel’ grows pink flowers with white inner petals, while ‘Merrill’ flowers are huge and white. Another of the best magnolia trees in zone 4 is saucer magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana), hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. This is one of the big trees, growing to 30 feet (9 m.) tall with a 25 foot (8 m.) spread. The flowers of the saucer magnolia present in saucer shapes. They are a striking pink-purpose on the outside and a pure white within.

Zone 4 Pears: Pear Trees That Grow In Zone 4 Gardens

Amy Grant — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 22:06:59 +0000

While you may not be able to grow citrus trees in the cooler regions of the United States, there are a number of cold hardy fruit trees suited to USDA zone 4 and even zone 3. Pears are ideal fruit trees to grow in these zones and there are quite a few cold hardy pear tree varieties. Read on to find out about growing zone 4 pears.

About Pear Trees for Zone 4

Pear trees suited for zone 4 are those that can withstand winter temperatures between -20 and -30 degrees F. (-28 and -34 C.). Some pear trees are self-fertile, but the majority of them need a pollinating buddy nearby. Some are more compatible than others too, so it’s important to do some research regarding which to plant together if you want a good fruit set. Pear trees can also get quite large, up to 40 feet (12 m.) in height when mature. That combined with the need for two trees equals the need for some significant yard space. Until recently, cold hardy pear tree varieties tended to be more for canning and less for eating out of hand. Hardy pears are often small, tasteless, and rather mealy. One of the hardiest, John pear, is a good example. Although extremely hardy and the fruit is big and beautiful, they are unpalatable. Pears are fairly disease and insect free and are more easily grown organically for just this reason. A little patience may be in order, however, as pears can take up to 10 years before producing fruit.

Zone 4 Pear Tree Varieties

Early Gold is a cultivar of pear that is hardy to zone 3. This early maturing tree produces glossy green/gold pears a little larger than Bartlett pears. The tree grows to around 20 feet (6 m.) in height with a spread of about 16 feet (5 m.) across. Early Gold is perfect for canning, preserving, and eating fresh. Early Gold does need another pear for pollination. Golden Spice is an example of a pear tree that grows in zone 4. The fruit is small, 1 ¾ inch (4.5 cm.) and is more suited to canning than eating out of hand. This cultivar grows to around 20 feet (6 m.) in height and is a good pollen source for Ure pears. Harvest takes place in late August. Gourmet is another pear tree that grows well in zone 4. This cultivar has medium sized fruit that is juicy, sweet, and crisp-- ideal for eating fresh. Gourmet pears are ready to harvest from mid to late September. Gourmet is not a suitable pollinator for other pear trees. Luscious is suited to zone 4 and has a flavor reminiscent of Bartlett pears. Luscious pears are also ready for harvest from mid to late September and, like Gourmet, Luscious is not a good pollen source for another pear. Parker pears are also similar in size and flavor to Bartlett pears. Parker may set fruit without a second cultivar, although the crop size will be somewhat diminished. A better bet for a good fruit set is to plant another suitable pear nearby. Patten is also suited to zone 4 with large fruit, delicious eaten fresh. It is slightly hardier than Parker pear and may also produce some fruit without a second cultivar. Summercrisp is a medium sized pear with a red blush to the skin. The fruit is crisp with a mild flavor very much like an Asian pear. Harvest Summercrisp in mid-August. Ure is a smaller cultivar that produces small fruit reminiscent of Bartlett pears. Ure partners nicely with Golden Spice for pollination and is ready for harvest in mid-August.

Cold Hardy Peach Trees: Choosing Peach Trees For Zone 4 Gardens

Jackie Carroll — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 14:00:09 +0000

Many people are surprised to learn that northern gardeners can grow peaches. The key is to plant trees suited to the climate. Read on to find out about growing cold hardy peach trees in zone 4 gardens.

Peach Trees for Zone 4

The hardiest peach trees for cold climates tolerate temperatures as low as –20 degrees F. (-28 C.). Zone 4 peach tree varieties won't perform well in warmer areas. That's because warm spring weather stimulates the flowers, and if the warm spell is followed by a cold snap, the buds die. These trees need a climate where the temperatures stay cold well into spring. Here is a list of peach trees suited to the area. Peach trees produce best if there is more than one tree in the area so they can pollinate each other. That said, you can plant only one self-fertile tree and get a respectable harvest. All of these trees resist bacterial leaf spot. Contender – Large, firm, high-quality fruit make Contender one of the most popular trees for cold climates. The self-pollinating tree produces branches of fragrant pink flowers that are favorites among bees. It produces higher yields than most self-pollinating trees, and the fruit is deliciously sweet. The freestone peaches ripen in mid-August. Reliance – Anyone growing peaches in zone 4 will be delighted with Reliance. It is perhaps the hardiest of peach trees, perfect for areas where winters are frigid, and spring comes late. The fruit ripens in August, and it is one of the pleasures of summer. The large peaches look dull and maybe even a little dingy on the outside, but they are fragrant and sweet on the inside. These freestone peaches are the standard for cold climates. Blushingstar – These pretty, pinkish red peaches not only look good, but they also taste good too. They are small, averaging 2.5 inches (6 cm.) or a little larger in diameter. They are freestone peaches with white flesh that has a light pink blush that doesn't brown when you cut into it. This is a self-pollinating variety, so you only have to plant one. Intrepid – Intrepid is perfect for cobblers and other desserts, canning, freezing, and fresh eating. These self-pollinating trees bloom late and ripen in August, so you don't have to worry about a late frost destroying the crop. The medium-sized fruit have firm, yellow flesh.

Cold Hardy Japanese Maples: Selecting Japanese Maples For Zone 4 Gardens

Teo Spengler — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 14:00:17 +0000

Cold hardy Japanese maples are great trees to invite into your garden. Most varieties of Japanese maple are hardy in zones 5 through 9, though there are a few types that can handle the cold. Planting Japanese maples in containers is another great way to help these trees survive in zone 4 and other northern climates. If you are considering growing Japanese maples in zone 4, read on for the best varieties and advice on how to care for container trees.

Japanese Maples for Cold Climates

Japanese maples charm gardeners with their graceful shape and gorgeous fall color. These charming trees come in small, medium, and large and some cultivars survive chilly weather. Can Japanese maples for cold climates live through zone 4 winters though?

If you have heard that Japanese maples grow best in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 through 9, you have heard correctly. Winters in zone 4 get considerably colder than in zone 5. That said, it’s still possible to grow these trees in cooler regions of zone 4 with careful selection and protection.

Zone 4 Japanese Maple Trees

If you are looking for Japanese maples for zone 4, start by selecting the right cultivars. Although none are guaranteed to thrive as zone 4 Japanese maple trees, you’ll have the best luck by planting one of these.

If you want a tall tree, look at Emperor 1. It is a classic Japanese maple with the standard red leaves. The tree will grow to 20 feet (6 m.) tall and is one of the best Japanese maples for cold climates. If you want a garden tree that stops at 15 feet (5 m.), you’ll have more choices in Japanese maples for zone 4.

Consider Katsura, a lovely specimen with light green leaves that blaze orange in autumn.

Beni Kawa (also called Beni Gawa) is one of the most cold hardy Japanese maples. Its deep green foliage transforms into gold and crimson in fall, and the scarlet bark looks fabulous in winter snow. It also grows to 15 feet (5 m.).

If you want to pick among smaller Japanese maples for zone 4, consider red black Inaba Shidare or weeping Green Snowflake. They top out at 5 and 4 (1.5 and 1 m.) feet, respectively.

Or opt for dwarf maple Beni Komanchi, a fast-growing tree with red leaves all growing season.

Growing Japanese Maples in Zone 4

When you start growing Japanese maples in zone 4, you’ll want to take action to protect the tree from winter cold. Select a location protected from winter winds, like a courtyard. You’ll need to apply a thick layer of mulch over the tree’s root zone.

Another alternative is to grow a Japanese maple in a pot and move it indoors when the winter gets really cold. Maples are great container trees. Leave the tree outdoors until it is completely dormant, then stash it in an unheated garage or other sheltered, cool area.

If you are growing zone 4 Japanese maples in pots, be sure to put them back outside once the buds begin to open. Keep a watchful eye on the weather. You’ll need to bring it back in quickly during hard frosts.

Zone 4 Nectarine Trees: Types Of Cold Hardy Nectarine Trees

Amy Grant — Mon, 02 Jan 2017 01:00:41 +0000

Growing nectarines in cold climates is not historically recommended. Certainly, in USDA zones colder than zone 4, it would be foolhardy. All that has changed though and there are now cold hardy nectarine trees available, nectarine trees suited for zone 4 that is. Read on to find out about zone 4 nectarine trees and caring for cold hardy nectarine trees.

Nectarine Growing Zones

The USDA Hardiness Zone map is divided into 13 zones of 10 degrees F. each, ranging from -60 degrees F. (-51 C.) to 70 degrees F. (21 C.). Its purpose is to aid in identifying how well plants will survive winter temperatures in each zone. For example, zone 4 is described as having a minimum average temperature of -30 to -20 degrees F. (-34 to -29 C.). If you’re in that zone, then it gets pretty chilly in the winter, not arctic, but chilly. Most nectarine growing zones are in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 8 but, as mentioned, there are now more newly developed varieties of cold hardy nectarine trees. That said, even when growing nectarine trees for zone 4, you may need to provide extra winter protection for the tree, especially if you are prone to Chinooks in your area which can begin to thaw the tree out and crack the trunk. Also, every USDA zone is an average. There are a multitude of microclimates in any one USDA zone. That means that you might be able to grow a zone 5 plant in zone 4 or, conversely, you may be particularly susceptible to colder winds and temps so even a zone 4 plant is stunted or won’t make it.

Zone 4 Nectarine Trees

Nectarines are genetically identical to peaches, just without the fuzz. They are self-fertile, so one tree can pollinate itself. They do require a chill time to set fruit, but overly cold temperatures can kill the tree. If you have been limited by your hardiness zone or the size of your property, there is a cold hardy miniature nectarine tree now available. The beauty of miniature trees is that they are easier to move around and protect from the cold. Stark HoneyGlo miniature nectarines only attain a height of about 4 to 6 feet (1-2 m.). It is suited for zones 4 through 8 and can be grown in an 18 to 24 inch (46-61 cm.) container. The fruit will ripen in late summer. ‘Intrepid’ is a cultivar that is hardy in zones 4 to 7. This tree produces large, firm freestone fruit with sweet flesh. It is hardy to -20 F. (-29 C.) and ripens in mid to late August. ‘Messina’ is another freestone crop that has sweet, large fruit with the classic look of a peach. It ripens at the end of July. Prunus persica ‘Hardired’ is a nectarine that with good protection and, depending upon your microclimate, might work in zone 4. It ripens in early August with predominantly red skin and yellow freestone flesh with good flavor and texture. It is resistant to both brown rot and bacterial leaf spot. Its recommended USDA hardiness zones are 5 to 9 but, again, with sufficient protection (aluminum bubble wrap insulation) might be a contender for zone 4, as it is hardy down to -30 degrees F. (-34 C.). This hardy nectarine was developed in Ontario, Canada.

Growing Nectarines in Cold Climates

When you are happily flipping through catalogues or on the internet searching for your cold hardy nectarine, you may notice that not only is the USDA zone listed but also the number of chill hours. This is a pretty important number, but how do you come up with it and what is it? Chill hours tell you how long the cold temps last; the USDA zone only tells you the coldest temps in your area. The definition of a chill hour is any hour under 45 degrees F. (7 C.). There are a couple of methods to calculate this, but the easiest method is to let someone else do it! Your local Master Gardeners and Farm Advisors can help you find a local source of chill hour information. This information is extremely important when planting fruit trees since they need a specific number of chill hours per winter for optimal growth and fruiting. If a tree doesn’t get enough chill hours, the buds might not open in the spring, they might open unevenly, or leaf production might be delayed, all of which affects fruit production. Additionally, a low chill tree planted in a high chill area could break dormancy too soon and become damaged or even killed.

Cold Hardy Grasses: Choosing Ornamental Grasses For Zone 4 Gardens

Jackie Carroll — Sun, 01 Jan 2017 14:00:21 +0000

What adds sound and movement to the garden as well as a graceful beauty no other class of plants can top? Ornamental grasses! Find out about zone 4 ornamental grasses in this article.

Growing Cold Hardy Grasses

When you visit a nursery in hopes of finding new plants for the garden, you might walk right by the ornamental grasses without a second glance. The little starter plants in the nursery may not look very promising, but cold hardy grasses have much to offer the zone 4 gardener. They come in all sizes, and many have feathery seed heads that sway with the slightest breeze, giving your garden a graceful movement and rustling sound. Decorative grasses in cold climates provide essential wildlife habitat. Inviting small mammals and birds into your garden with grasses adds a whole new dimension of enjoyment to the outdoors. If that isn’t enough reason to plant grasses, consider that they are naturally pest and disease resistant and require very little maintenance.

Ornamental Grasses for Zone 4

When choosing an ornamental grass, pay attention to the mature size of the plant. It can take as much as three years for grasses to mature but leave them plenty of room to reach their full potential. Here are some of the most popular types. These grasses are easy to find. Miscanthus is a large and varied group of grasses. Three of the popular, silvery-colored forms are:

Japanese silver grass, 4 to 8 feet (1-2 m.) tall, combines well with a water feature.
Flame grass, 4 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) tall, has beautiful orange fall color.
Silver feather grass, 6 to 8 feet (2 m.) tall, features silvery plumes.

All perform well as specimen plants or in mass plantings. Japanese golden forest grass grows to a height of about 2 feet (61 cm.), and it has an ability that most grasses lack. It can grow in the shade. The variegated green and gold leaves brighten up shady nooks. Blue fescue forms a neat little mound about 10 inches (25 cm.) tall and 12 inches (31 cm.) wide. These stiff mounds of grass make a nice border for a sunny sidewalk or flower garden. Switchgrasses grow 4 to 6 feet (1-2 m.) tall, depending on the variety. The ‘Northwind’ variety is a pretty blue-hued grass that makes a nice focal point or specimen plant. It attracts birds to the garden. ‘Dewey Blue’ is a good choice for coastal environments. Purple moor grass is a lovely plant with plumes on stems that rise high above the tufts of grass. It grows about 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall and has excellent fall color.

Cold Hardy Juniper Plants: Growing Junipers In Zone 4

Teo Spengler — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 18:00:13 +0000

With feathery and graceful foliage, juniper works its magic to fill in empty spaces in your garden. This evergreen conifer, with distinctive blue-green foliage, comes in a variety of forms and grows in many climates. If you live in USDA plant hardiness zone 4, you may wonder if juniper can grow and thrive in your garden. Read on for the information you need about junipers for zone 4.

Cold Hardy Juniper Plants

Zone 4 regions of the country get pretty cold, with winter temperatures sinking well below 0 degrees F. (-18 C.). Yet, many conifers thrive in this zone, including cold hardy juniper plants. They grow in many regions of the nation, thriving in zones 2 through 9. Junipers have many plus factors in addition to their delightful foliage. Their flowers appear in spring and subsequent berries attract wild birds. The refreshing fragrance of their needles is a delight, and the trees are surprisingly low maintenance. Zone 4 junipers grow well in the ground and also in containers. What types of junipers for zone 4 are available in commerce? Many, and they range from ground huggers to tall specimen trees. If you want groundcover, you’ll find zone 4 junipers that fit the bill. 'Blue Rug' creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis) is a trailing shrub that only grows 6 inches (15 cm.) tall. This silver-blue juniper thrives in zones 2 through 9. If you are thinking of growing junipers in zone 4 but need something slightly taller, try golden common juniper (Juniperus communis 'Depressa Aurea') with it golden shoots. It grows to 2 feet (61 cm.) tall in zones 2 through 6. Or consider 'Grey Owl' juniper (Juniperus virginiana 'Grey Owl'). It rises to 3 feet tall (1 m.) in zones 2 through 9. The tips of the silver foliage turn purple in winter. For a specimen plant among zone 4 junipers, plant gold juniper (Juniperus virginianum 'Aurea') that grows up to 15 feet (5 m.) tall in zones 2 through 9. Its shape is a loose pyramid, and its foliage is golden. If you want to start growing junipers in zone 4, you’ll be happy to learn that these are easy to cultivate. They transplant easily and grow with little care. Plant junipers for zone 4 in a full sun location. They’ll do best in moist, well-drained soil.

How Hardy Are Apricot Trees: Apricot Tree Varieties For Zone 4 Gardens

Amy Grant — Sat, 31 Dec 2016 14:00:49 +0000

Apricots are small, early blooming trees in the genus Prunus cultivated for their delicious fruit. Since they bloom early, any late frost can severely damage the flowers, hence fruit set. So how hardy are apricot trees? Are there any apricot trees suited to grow in zone 4? Read on to learn more.

How Hardy are Apricot Trees?

Since they blossom early, in February or late March, the trees can be susceptible to late frosts and are generally only suited to USDA zones 5 to 8. That said, there are some cold hardy apricot trees – zone 4 suitable apricot trees. Apricot trees as a general rule are fairly hardy. It’s just the flowers that can get blasted by a late frost. The tree itself will likely sail through the frosts, but you may not get any fruit.

About Apricot Trees in Zone 4

A note on hardiness zones before we delve into suitable apricot tree varieties for zone 4. Typically, a plant that is hardy to zone 3 can take winter temperatures between -20 and -30 degrees F. (-28 to -34 C.). This is a rule of thumb more or less since you may be able to grow plants that are classed as suited to a zone higher than your region, especially if you offer them winter protection. Apricots may be self-fertile or require another apricot to pollinate. Before you select a cold hardy apricot tree, be sure to do some research to find out if you need more than one in order to get fruit set.

Apricot Tree Varieties for Zone 4

Westcot is an excellent choice for zone 4 apricots and is probably the number one choice for cold climate apricot growers. The fruit is wonderful eaten out of hand. The tree gets to about 20 feet (6 m.) tall and is ready to harvest in early August. It does need other apricots such as Harcot, Moongold, Scout, or Sungold to achieve pollination. This variety is a little more difficult to come by than the other cultivars but well worth the effort. Scout is the next best bet for zone 4 apricot trees. The tree attains a height of about 20 feet (6 m.) and is ready to harvest in early August. It needs other apricots to successfully pollinate. Good options for pollination are Harcot, Moongold, Sungold, and Westcot. Moongold was developed in 1960 and is a bit smaller than Scout, around 15 feet (5 m.) tall. Harvest is in July, and it also needs a pollinator, such as Sungold. Sungold was also developed in 1960. Harvest is a little later than Moongold, in August, but well worth the wait for these small yellow fruit with a red blush. Other cultivars that are suited to zone 4 come out of Canada and are a little more difficult to obtain. Cultivars within the Har-series are all self-compatible but will have a better fruit set with another cultivar nearby. They grow to around 20 feet (6 m.) in height and are ready for harvest from late July to mid-August. These trees include:

Harcot
Harglow
Hargrand
Harogem
Harlayne

Cold Hardy Trees: Tips On Growing Trees In Zone 4

Darcy Larum — Fri, 30 Dec 2016 18:00:32 +0000

Properly placed trees can add value to your property. They can provide shade to keep cooling costs down in the summer and provide a windbreak to keep heating costs down in the winter. Trees can provide privacy and year round interest in the landscape. Continue reading to learn more about cold hardy trees and growing trees in zone 4.

Growing Trees in Zone 4

Young zone 4 tree selections may need a little extra protection to make it through the winter. It’s not uncommon for deer or rabbits to rub or chew on new saplings in fall and winter. Tree guards placed around the trunks of new trees can protect them from animal damage. Experts argue about using tree guards for frost protection. On one hand, it is said that tree guards can protect a tree from frost damage and cracking by keeping the sun from thawing and warming the trunk. On the other hand, it’s believed that snow and ice can get beneath the tree guards causing cracks and damage. Unfortunately, with many cold hardy trees, especially maples, frost cracks are just part of growing trees in zone 4. Adding a layer of mulch around the root zone of young trees is perhaps the best winter protection. Do not pile the mulch up around the trunk, though. The mulch should be placed around the tree’s root zone and drip line in a donut shape.

Cold Hardy Trees

Below are listed some of the best zone 4 landscape trees, including evergreen trees, ornamental trees and shade trees. Evergreen trees are often used as windbreaks, privacy screens and to add winter interest to the landscape. Ornamental trees are often small-flowering and fruiting trees that are used as specimen plants in the landscape. Shade trees are larger trees that can help keep cooling costs down in the summer or create a shady oasis in the landscape. Evergreens

Ornamental Trees

Shade Trees

Cold Hardy Viburnums – Growing Viburnum Shrubs In Zone 4

Teo Spengler — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 18:00:35 +0000

Viburnum shrubs are showy plants with deep green foliage and often, frothy blossoms. They include evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous plants that grow in many different climates. Gardeners living in zone 4 will want to choose cold hardy viburnums. Temperatures in zone 4 can dip pretty far below zero in winter. Fortunately, you’ll find that there are more than a few viburnum varieties for zone 4.

Viburnums for Cold Climates

Viburnums are a gardener’s best friend. They come to the rescue when you need a plant for a dry or very wet area. You’ll find cold hardy viburnums that thrive in direct, full sun as well as partial shade. Many of the 150 species of viburnum are native to this country. In general, viburnums grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 2 to 9. Zone 2 is the coldest zone you’ll find in the country. That means that you are sure to find a good selection of viburnum shrubs in zone 4. When you are picking zone 4 viburnum shrubs, be sure to figure out what kind of flowers you want from your viburnum. While most viburnums grow blossoms in spring, the flowers vary from one species to another. Most viburnums flower in spring. Some are fragrant, some are not. Flower color ranges from white through ivory to pink. The shape of the flowers differ as well. Some species bear ornamental fruits in red, blue, black, or yellow.

Viburnum Shrubs in Zone 4

When you go shopping for viburnum shrubs in zone 4, prepare to be choosy. You’ll find many viburnum varieties for zone 4 with different features. One group of viburnums for cold climates are known as American Cranberry bush (Viburnum trilobum). These plants have maple tree-like leaves and white, flat-top spring flowers. After the blossoms expect edible berries. Other zone 4 viburnum shrubs include Arrowwood (Viburnum dentatum) and Blackhaw (Viburnum prunifolium). Both grow to about 12 feet (4 m.) tall and wide. The former has white flowers, while the latter offers creamy white blooms. The flowers of both types of zone 4 viburnum shrubs are followed by blue-black fruit. European varieties also qualify as viburnums for cold climates. Compact European grows to 6 feet (2 m.) tall and wide and offers fall color. Dwarf European species get only 2 feet (61 cm.) tall and rarely flowers or fruits. In contrast, common snowball offers large, double flowers in rounded clusters. These viburnum varieties for zone 4 don’t promise much fall color.

Cold Hardy Lavender Plants: Tips On Growing Lavender In Zone 4 Gardens

Amy Grant — Thu, 29 Dec 2016 14:00:08 +0000

Love lavender but you live in a cooler region? Some types of lavender will only grow as annuals in the cooler USDA zones, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on growing your own. Cold hardy lavender might need a little more TLC if you don’t have a reliable snowpack, but there are still lavender plants for zone 4 growers available. Read on to find out about lavender varieties for cold climates and information about growing lavender in zone 4.

Tips for Growing Lavender in Zone 4

Lavender requires plenty of sun, well-draining soil, and excellent air circulation. Prepare the soil by tilling down 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm.) and working in some compost and potash. Plant the lavender out when all danger of frost has passed for your area. Lavender does not need lots of water. Water and then allow the soil to dry out before watering again. In the winter, prune back the herb's new growth by 2/3 of the stem length, avoiding cutting into the old wood. If you don’t get a good reliable snow cover, cover your plants with straw or dry leaves and then with burlap. This will protect cold hardy lavender from drying winds and chilly temps. In the spring, when temperatures have warmed, remove the burlap and mulch.

Lavender Varieties for Cold Climates

There are basically three lavender plants suitable for zone 4. Be sure to check that the variety has been tagged a zone 4 lavender plant; otherwise, you will be growing an annual. Munstead is hardy from USDA zones 4 to 9 and has lovely lavender-blue flowers with narrow, green leafed foliage. It can be propagated via seed, stem cuttings, or get plant starts from the nursery. This variety of lavender will grow from 12 to 18 inches (31-46 cm.) in height and once established, requires very little care with the exception of some winter protection. Hidicote lavender is another variety suited to zone 4 that, like Munstead, can even be grown in zone 3 with reliable snow cover or winter protection. Hidicote’s foliage is gray, and the flowers are more purple than blue. It is a shorter variety than Munstead and will only get to about a foot (31 cm.) in height. Phenomenal is a new hybrid cold hardy lavender that thrives from zone 4 to 8. It grows much taller than either Hidicote or Munstead at 24 to 34 inches (61-86 cm.), with the taller flower spikes typical of hybrid lavender. Phenomenal is true to its name and sports silver foliage with lavender-blue blossoms and a mounding habit much like the French lavenders. It has the highest amount of essential oil of any lavender variety and makes an excellent ornamental specimen as well as for use in fresh or dried floral arrangements. While Phenomenal thrives in hot, humid summers, it is still very hardy with a reliable snow cover; otherwise, cover the plant as above. For a truly eye-popping display, plant all three of these varieties, placing Phenomenal at the back with Munstead in the middle and Hidicote at the front of the garden. Space Phenomenal plants 36 inches (91 cm.) apart, Munstead 18 inches (46 cm.) apart, and Hidicote a foot (31 cm.) apart for a glorious assemblage of blue to purple blossoms.

Cold Hardy Flowering Trees: Growing Ornamental Trees In Zone 4

Jackie Carroll — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 22:00:37 +0000

Ornamental trees enhance your property while adding to the resale value. Why plant a plain tree when you can have one with flowers, brilliant fall foliage, ornamental fruit, and other attractive features? This article offers ideas for planting ornamental trees in zone 4.

Ornamental Trees for Zone 4

Our suggested cold hardy flowering trees offer more than just spring flowers. The blossoms on these trees are followed by a shapely canopy of attractive green leaves in summer, and either brilliant color or interesting fruit in fall. You won’t be disappointed when you plant one of these beauties. Flowering Crabapple – As if the delicate beauty of crabapple blossoms isn’t enough, the blossoms are accompanied by a delightful fragrance that permeates the landscape. You can cut branch tips to bring the early spring color and fragrance indoors. The leaves turn yellow in the fall and the display isn’t always brilliant and showy, but just wait. The attractive fruit persists on the trees long after the leaves fall. Maples – Known for their flashy fall colors, maple trees come in all sizes and shapes. Many have showy clusters of spring flowers as well. Hardy ornamental maple trees for zone 4 include these beauties:

Amur maples have fragrant, pale yellow spring flowers.
Tartarian maples feature clusters of greenish white flowers that appear just as the leaves begin to emerge.
Shantung maple, sometimes called painted maple, has yellowish white flowers but the real showstopper is the leaves that emerge purplish red in spring, changing to green in summer, and then red, orange, and yellow in fall.

All three of these maple trees grow no more than 30 feet (9 m.) in height, the perfect size for an ornamental lawn tree. Pagoda Dogwood – This pretty little beauty grows no more than 15 feet (5 m.) tall with graceful horizontal branches. Pagoda dogwood has cream-colored, 6 inch (15 cm.) spring flowers that bloom before the leaves emerge. Japanese Lilac Tree – A small tree with a powerful impact, the Japanese lilac is loaded with blossoms and fragrance, although some people don’t find the fragrance as pleasant as the more familiar lilac shrub. The standard lilac tree grows to 30 feet (9 m.) and dwarfs grow to 15 feet (5 m.).

Bushes That Grow In Zone 4: Growing Shrubs In Zone 4 Gardens

Darcy Larum — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 18:00:52 +0000

A well-balanced landscape consists of trees, shrubs, perennials and even annuals to provide color and interest throughout the year. Shrubs can provide different colors and textures that last longer than many perennials. Shrubs can be used as privacy hedges, landscape accents or specimen plants.

Whether evergreen or deciduous, there are many shrubs for each hardiness zone that can add beauty and continual interest in the landscape. Continue reading to learn about bushes that grow in zone 4.

Growing Shrubs in Zone 4 Gardens

Growing shrubs in zone 4 is not much different than growing shrubs in any zone. Cold hardy shrubs will benefit from an extra heap of mulch around the root zone in late fall for insulation in winter. Most shrubs can be pruned back when they go dormant in late autumn, except for evergreens, lilacs and weigela.

Spirea, potentilla and ninebark should be cut back hard every couple years to keep them full and healthy. All evergreens should be watered well each fall to prevent winter burn.

Bushes That Grow in Zone 4

The following shrubs/small trees are suitable for growing in zone 4 climates.

Spring Flowering Shrubs

Flowering Almond (Prunus glandulosa) – Hardy in zones 4-8. It prefers full sun and is adaptable to most soils. The bush grows between 4 and 6 feet (1-2 m.) tall, and nearly as wide. Small, double pink flowers cover the plant in spring.
Daphne (Daphne burkwoodi) – The cultivar ‘Carol Mackie’ is hardy in zones 4-8. Provide full sun to part shade and well-draining soil. Expect fragrant, white-pink flower clusters with growth of 3 feet (91 cm.) tall and 3-4 feet (91 cm.-1m.) wide.
Forsythia (Forsythia sp.) – While most are fairly tolerant in zones 4-8, you’ll find ‘Northern Gold’ to be one of the hardiest of these commonly planted shrubs. These yellow-blooming shrubs enjoy plenty of sun and without pruning can reach 6-8 feet (2 m.) tall with a similar spread.
Lilac (Syringa sp.) – Hardy in zones 3-7, there are hundreds of varieties of lilac well suited to zone 4. Size of plant and color of highly fragrant flowers differs by variety.
Mock orange (Philadelphia virginalis) – Hardy in zones 4-8, this shrub is highly fragrant with white flowers.
Purpleleaf sandcherry (Prunus cisterns) – Though its purple foliage provides interest from spring through summer, this shrub is most impressive in spring when the light pink flowers beautifully contrast the dark foliage. Hardy in zones 3-8, but can be short lived.
Quince (Chaenomeles japonica) – This zone 4 hardy plant provides vivid shades of red, orange or pink flowers just before foliage growth begins in spring.
Weigela (Weigela sp.) – There are many varieties of weigela hardy in zone 4. Foliage color, flower color and size depend on variety and some are even repeat bloomers. All types have trumpet-shaped flowers that attract pollinating insects and hummingbirds.

Summer Flowering Shrubs

Dogwood (Cornus sp.) – Size and foliage color depend on variety, with many types hardy in zones 2-7. While most provide white flower (or pink) clusters in early spring, many also put on an early summer show. Many dogwoods can also add winter interest with bright red or yellow stems.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) – The Black Lace variety is hardy in zones 4-7, providing pink clusters of flowers in early summer, followed by edible black-red fruit. Dark, lacy black-purple foliage is attractive in spring, summer and fall. Makes an excellent low maintenance alternative to fussy Japanese maples.
Hydrangea (Hydrangea sp.) – Like dogwoods, the size and flower color depend on variety. An old fashioned favorite, hydrangeas have large flower clusters from mid-summer to frost and many types are now suitable for zone 4 regions.
Ninebark (Physocarpus sp.) – Mostly planted for foliage color but also provide attractive white-pink flower clusters in mid-summer.
Potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa) – Potentilla blooms from early summer through fall. Size and flower color depend on variety.
Smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria) – Hardy in zones 4-8, give this one full sun for purple foliage varieties and part shade for golden types. This large shrub to small tree (8-15 feet tall) (2-5 m.) produces large wispy flower plumes that look somewhat like smoke in mid- to late summer with the foliage attractive all season long.
Spirea (Spirea sp.)- Hardy in zones 3-8. Full Sun – Part Shade. There are hundreds of varieties of Spirea that can be grown in zone 4. Most bloom in spring- midsummer and have colorful foliage that is attractive in spring, summer and fall. Low maintenance shrub.
St. John’s wort ‘Ames Kalm’ (Hypericum kalmianum) – This variety is hardy in zones 4-7, reaches about 2-3 feet (61-91 cm.) tall and wide, and produces masses of bright yellow flowers in midsummer.
Sumac (Rhus typhina) – Primarily grown for its green, yellow, orange and red lacy foliage, Staghorn sumac is often used as a specimen plant.
Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia) – Hardy in zones 4-9, you’ll enjoy this shrub’s highly fragrant flower spikes in midsummer, which also attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Viburnum (Viburnum sp.) – Size depends on variety with many having white clusters of flowers in early summer, followed by fruit that attracts birds. Many varieties are hardy in zone 4 and also have orange and red fall color.
Dappled willow (Salix integra) – Hardy in zones 4-8 this very fast growing shrub is primarily grown for its pink and white foliage. Trim frequently to promote this colorful new growth.

Shrubs for Fall Color

Barberry (Berberis sp.) - Hardy in zones 4-8. Full Sun- Part Shade. Has thorns. Size depends on variety. Foliage is red, purple or gold depending on variety, throughout spring, summer and fall.
Burning bush (Euonymus alata) - Hardy in zones 4-8. Full Sun. 5-12 feet (1-4 m.) tall and wide depending on variety. Grown primarily for its bright red fall color.

Evergreen Shrubs in Zone 4

Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) – Found in tall columnar, conical or small rounded varieties, the large shrubs to small trees provide green or gold evergreen foliage year round.
Boxwood (Buxus sp.) – Hardy in zones 4-8, this popular broadleaf evergreen makes a great additions to gardens. Size depends on variety.
False cypress ‘Mops’ (Chamaecyparis pisifera) – The shaggy, thread-like gold foliage gives it this interesting shrub its common name and is a good choice for zone 4 gardens.
Juniper (Juniperus sp.) – Size and color depends on variety, with many hardy from zone 3-9. Can be low and sprawling, medium and upright, or tall and columnar depending on which types you choose. Different varieties come in blue, green or gold.
Mugo pine (Pinus mugo) – Hardy in zones 3-7, this somewhat small evergreen conifer tops out anywhere from 4-6 feet (1-2 m.) tall, with dwarf varieties also available for smaller areas.

Zone 4 Deciduous Trees – Choosing Cold Hardy Deciduous Trees

Teo Spengler — Wed, 28 Dec 2016 14:00:06 +0000

You’ll find deciduous trees that grow happily in almost every climate and region in the world. This includes USDA zone 4, an area near the northern border of the country. This means that zone 4 deciduous trees have to be quite cold hardy. If you are interested in growing deciduous trees in zone 4, you’ll want to know as much as possible about cold hardy deciduous trees. Read on for some tips about deciduous trees for zone 4.

About Cold Hardy Deciduous Trees

If you live in the north-central section of the country or in the northern tip of New England, you might be a zone 4 gardener. You already know that you can’t plant just any tree and expect it to thrive. Temperatures in zone 4 can drop to -30 degrees Fahrenheit (-34 C.) in the winter. But many deciduous trees thrive in cooler climates. If you are growing deciduous trees in zone 4, you’ll have quite a large selection to choose from. That being said, a few of the more commonly planted types are below.

Deciduous Trees for Zone 4

Box elder trees (Acer negundo) grow fast, up to 50 feet (15 m.) tall with a similar spread. They thrive almost everywhere, and are hardy in US Department of Agriculture zones 2 to 10. These cold hardy deciduous trees offer yellow blossoms in spring to complement the fresh, green leaves. Why not plant include star magnolia (Magnolia stellata) on the list of zone 4 deciduous trees? These magnolias thrive in zones 4 through 8 in wind-protected areas, but only grow to 20 feet (6 m.) tall with a 15-foot (4.5 m.) spread. The classic, star-shaped blossoms smell wonderful and appear on the tree in late winter. Some trees are too tall for most backyards, yet they thrive in zone 4 and would work well in parks. Or if you have a very large property, you could consider one of the following cold hardy deciduous trees. One of the most popular deciduous trees for large landscapes are pin oaks (Quercus palustris). They are tall trees, rising to 70 feet (21.5 m.) tall and hardy to zone 4. Plant these trees in full sun in a site with loamy soil, and watch for the leaves to blush a deep crimson in fall. Tolerant of urban pollution, white poplars (Populus alba) thrive in zones 3 through 8. Like pin oaks, white poplars are tall trees for larger areas only, growing to 75 feet (23 m.) high and wide. This tree is a valued ornamental, with silver-green foliage, bark, twigs, and buds.

Zone 4 Blackberries: Types Of Cold Hardy Blackberry Plants

Amy Grant — Tue, 27 Dec 2016 18:00:18 +0000

Blackberries are survivors, colonizing wastelands, ditches, and vacant lots. For some folks they are akin to a noxious weed, while for the rest of us they are a blessing from God. In my neck of the woods they grow like weeds, but we love them anyway. I’m in a fairly temperate zone, but what about growing blackberries in zone 4? Are there cold hardy blackberry plants?

About Zone 4 Blackberries

There is nothing like a sun-kissed, plump, ripe blackberry plucked from a cane and popped directly into the mouth. Sure, you might be risking a few (or a lot) of scrapes and scratches, but it’s all worth it in the end. There are numerous newer cultivars out there meant to tame the rampant ramblings of these thorny canes, making the fruit more accessible. With hundreds of species worldwide, including dozens native to North America, there’s bound to be a blackberry for you. Although most thrive in USDA zones 5 through 10, their tolerance to cold and heat varies and there are several cultivars that are suited as zone 4 blackberries.

Choosing Blackberries for Zone 4

There are two choices of blackberry: Floricane (or summer bearing) and Primocane (fall bearing). Of the summer bearing blackberries for zone 4 is ‘Doyle.’ This thornless cultivar is suited to the southern half of zone 4. ‘Illini Hardy’ has thorns and an erect habit and is probably the most cold hardy blackberry plant available. ‘Chester’ is another thornless variety but is probably more foolproof in USDA zone 5. ‘Prime Jim’ and ‘Prime Jan’ are highly thorned and produce a late crop. They might be an option for the southern regions of zone 4 with protection. Mulch the canes over in the winter. High in nutrients such as vitamins C, K, folic acid, dietary fiber, and manganese, blackberries are also rich in anthocyanins and ellagic acid, a cancer slowing agent. When cared for properly, blackberries have a lengthy life span and are fairly disease and pest resistant with the exception of birds; it might be a toss-up as to who gets to the berries first!

Zone 4 Evergreen Trees: Choosing Evergreen Trees For Zone 4 Gardens

Jackie Carroll — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 22:00:28 +0000

If you want to grow evergreen trees in zone 4, you’re in luck. You’ll find an abundance of species to choose from. In fact, the only difficulty is in choosing just a few.

Choosing Zone 4 Evergreen Trees

The first thing to consider when selecting appropriate zone 4 evergreen trees is the climate the trees can withstand. Winters are harsh in zone 4, but there are lots of trees that can shake off low temperatures, snow, and ice without complaint. All of the trees in this article thrive in cold climates. Another thing to consider is the mature size of the tree. If you have a sprawling landscape, you may want to choose a large tree, but most home landscapes can only handle a small or medium-sized tree.

Small to Medium Evergreen Trees for Zone 4

Korean fir grows about 30 feet (9 m.) tall with a 20 foot (6 m.) spread and pyramidal shape. One of the most interesting varieties is ‘Horstmann’s Silberlocke,' which has green needles with white undersides. The needles turn upward, giving the tree a flocked look. The American arborvitae forms a narrow pyramid up to 20 feet (6 m.) tall and only about 12 feet (4 m.) wide in urban settings. Planted close together, they form a windscreen, privacy fence, or hedge. They keep their tight, neat shape without pruning. Chinese juniper is a tall form of the ubiquitous juniper shrub. It grows 10 to 30 feet (3-9 m.) tall with a spread of no more than 15 feet (4.5 m.). Birds love the berries and will visit the tree often during the winter months. An important advantage of this tree is that it tolerates salty soil and salt spray.

Larger Varieties of Hardy Evergreen Trees

Three varieties of fir (Douglas, balsam, and white) are gorgeous trees for large landscapes. They have a dense canopy with a pyramidal shape and grow to a height of about 60 feet (18 m.). The bark has a light color that stands out when glimpsed between the branches. Colorado blue spruce grows 50 to 75 feet (15-22 m.) tall and about 20 feet (6 m.) wide. You'll love the silvery blue-green cast to the needles. This hardy evergreen tree seldom sustains winter weather damage. Eastern red cedar is a dense tree that makes a good windscreen. It grows 40 to 50 feet (12-15 m.) tall with an 8 to 20 foot (2-6 m.) spread. Winter birds will visit often for the tasty berries.

Cold Hardy Azaleas: Choosing Azaleas For Zone 4 Gardens

Teo Spengler — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 18:00:18 +0000

Zone 4 is not as cold as it gets in the continental USA, but it’s still pretty cold. That means that plants requiring warm climates need not apply for positions in zone 4 perennial gardens. What about azaleas, those foundation shrubs of so many flowering gardens? You’ll find more than a few varieties of cold hardy azaleas that would thrive in zone 4. Read on for tips about growing azaleas in cold climates.

Growing Azaleas in Cold Climates

Azaleas are beloved by gardeners for their showy, colorful flowers. They belong to the genus Rhododendron, one of the largest genera of woody plants. Although azaleas are most often associated with mild climates, you can start growing azaleas in cold climates if you select cold hardy azaleas. Many azaleas for zone 4 belong to the sub-genus Pentanthera. One of the most important series of hybrid azaleas available in commerce is the Northern Lights Series. It was developed and released by the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Every one of the cold hardy azaleas in this series will survive down to temperatures of -45 degrees F. (-42 C.). That means that these hybrids can all be characterized as zone 4 azalea bushes.

Azaleas for Zone 4

If you want zone 4 azalea bushes that stand 6 to 8 feet (2 m) tall, take a look at Northern Lights F1 hybrid seedlings. These cold hardy azaleas are extremely prolific when it comes to flowers, and, come May, your bushes will be laden with fragrant pink flowers. For light pink flowers with a sweet smell, consider the “Pink Lights” selection. The shrubs grow to 8 feet (2 m.) tall. If you prefer your azaleas a deep rosy pink, go for “Rosy Lights” azalea. These bushes are also about 8 feet (2 m.) tall and wide. “White Lights” is a type of cold hardy azaleas offering white flowers, hardy to -35 degrees F. (-37 C.). The buds start out a delicate pale pink shade, but the mature flowers are white. Bushes grow to 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall. “Golden Lights” are similar zone 4 azalea bushes but offer golden blossoms. You can find azaleas for zone 4 that were not developed by Northern Lights too. For example, Roseshell azalea (Rhododendron prinophyllum) is native to the northeastern segment of the country but can be found growing in the wild as far west as Missouri. If you are ready to start growing azaleas in cold climates, these are hardy to -40 degrees F. (-40 C.). The bushes only get to 3 feet (1 m.) tall. The fragrant flowers range from white to rose pink flowers.

Cold Hardy Grape Varieties: Tips On Growing Grapes In Zone 4

Liz Baessler — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 22:00:28 +0000

Grapes are a fantastic crop for cold climates. Lots of vines can withstand very low temperatures, and the payoff when the harvest comes is so worth it. Grapevines do have different levels of hardiness, however. Keep reading to learn more about cold hardy grape varieties, particularly how to pick grapes for zone 4 conditions.

Cold Hardy Grape Varieties

Growing grapes in zone 4 is no different than anywhere else, though additional winter protection or prepping may be necessary in some instances. The key to success largely depends on your zone 4 grape selections. Here are some good zone 4 grapevines: Beta – Hardy down to zone 3, this concord hybrid is deep purple and very strong. It’s good for jams and juice but not for winemaking. Bluebell – Hardy down to zone 3, this grape is very disease resistant and good for juice, jelly, and eating. It performs very well in zone 4. Edelweiss – A very hardy white grape, it produces yellow to green fruit that makes good, sweet wine and is excellent eaten fresh. Frontenac – Bred to be a cold hardy wine grape, it produces heavy clusters of many small fruits. Primarily used for wine, it also makes a good jam. Kay Gray – Less hardy of the zone 4 grapevines, this one needs some protection to survive the winter. It produces excellent green table grapes but is not very productive. King of the North – Hardy down to zone 3, this vine heavily produces blue grapes that are excellent for juice. Marquette – Relatively hardy down to zone 3, it performs very well in zone 4. Its blue grapes are a favorite for making red wine. Minnesota 78 – A less hardy hybrid of Beta, it is hardy down to zone 4. Its blue grapes are great for juice, jam, and eating fresh. Somerset – Hardy down to zone 4, this white seedless grape is the most cold tolerant seedless grape available. Swenson Red – This red table grape has a strawberry-like flavor that makes it a favorite for eating fresh. It is hardy down to zone 4. Valiant – Thought to be the toughest of the cold hardy grape varieties, reportedly surviving temperatures as low as -50 degrees F. (-46 C.). Very popular for its toughness and flavor, it’s a good choice in cold climates. It is, however, very vulnerable to mildew disease. Worden – Hardy down to zone 4, it produces a large number of blue grapes that are good for jams and juice and has good disease resistance.

Zone 4 Groundcovers: Choosing Plants For Zone 4 Groundcoverage

Bonnie L. Grant — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 14:01:43 +0000

Groundcover plants are very useful for areas where minimal maintenance is desired and as an alternative to turf grass. Zone 4 groundcovers must be hardy to winter temperatures of -30 to -20 degrees F. (-34 to -29 C.). While this may limit some of the choices, there are still plenty of options for the cold zone gardener. Cold hardy groundcovers are also useful as protection for semi-hardy plant's roots, minimizing most weeds, and creating a carpet of color that seamlessly integrates the rest of the garden into a Monet-like swath of tones and textures.

About Zone 4 Groundcovers

Landscape planning often incorporates groundcovers as part of the plan. These low-growing living carpets project interest to the eye while accenting other plantings. Plants for zone 4 ground coverage abound. There are many useful and hardy cold hardy groundcovers that may bloom, yield evergreen foliage, and even produce fruit. As you design your landscape, it is important to note areas where most plants don't grow, such as rocky regions, over tree roots, and in sites where maintenance would be difficult. Groundcovers are very useful in such situations and generally don't need much upkeep while effortlessly filling in gaps and providing a foil for taller plant specimens. In zone 4, the winters can be very harsh and cold, often accompanied by chill winds, heavy snow, and ice. These conditions may be difficult for some plants. This is where plants for zone 4 ground coverage come into play. Not only are they hardy in winter but they thrive in the short, hot summer and add different seasonal interest year-round.

Groundcovers for Zone 4

If lush greenery and varying tones and textures of leaves is your desire, there are many suitable groundcover plants for zone 4. Consider the size of the area, the moisture levels and drainage, the height of coverage you desire, the exposure, and the fertility of the soil as you choose your groundcover. Common wintercreeper has delightful dark green leaves with scalloped edges. It can be trained to trail as well as allowed to creep along, establishing itself in a broad range over time. Creeping juniper is one of the hardiest evergreen plants, is quick to establish and comes in varieties that range from nearly a foot tall (31 cm.) to just 6 inches (15 cm.). It also has several cultivars with foliage ranging from silvery blue, grayish green, and even plum tones in winter. Many ivy plants are useful in zone 4 such as Algerian, English, Baltic, and variegated cultivars. All are quick to grow and create a tumble of stems and pretty heart-shaped foliage. Other foliar forms also produce small but sweet flowers in spring and summer. Some of these are:

High impact seasonal displays may be created with flowering species of hardy groundcovers. Flowering groundcover plants for zone 4 may produce blooms in spring only or may extend throughout summer and even into fall. There are both woody and herbaceous plant covers from which to choose. Woody specimens bloom at different times of the year and many even produce berries and fruits that attract birds and wildlife. Some may require pruning if you want a tidier groundcover, but all are fairly self-sustaining and provide different seasons of interest.

The herbaceous groundcovers die back in fall but their color and fast growth in spring fill in open spaces quickly. Herbaceous groundcovers for zone 4 to think about might include:

Don't be alarmed if these seem to disappear in autumn, as they will come back with a force in spring and rapidly spread for wonderful warm season coverage and color. Groundcovers offer unique versatility and ease of care for many forgotten or difficult to maintain sites. Hardy groundcovers for zone 4 can appeal to just about any gardener's need and provide years of effective weed control, moisture retention, and attractive companions for your other plants.

Rhododendrons For Zone 4 Gardens – Types Of Cold Hardy Rhododendrons

Bonnie L. Grant — Sun, 25 Dec 2016 01:00:26 +0000

Rhododendrons are so beloved they have a common nickname, Rhodies. These wonderful shrubs come in a wide array of sizes and flower colors and are easy to grow with little maintenance. Rhododendrons make excellent foundation specimens, container plants (smaller cultivars), screens or hedges, and standalone glories. It used to be that gardeners in the north couldn't take advantage of these standout plants because they could be killed in the first hard freeze. Today, rhododendrons for zone 4 are not only possible but a reality and there are several plants from which to choose.

Cold Hardy Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons are found native in temperate regions of the world. They are outstanding performers and landscape favorites due to their large, showy flowers. Most are evergreen and start blooming in late winter well into the summer. There are many rhododendrons for cold climates as well. New breeding techniques have developed several cultivars that can withstand zone 4 temperatures with ease. Zone 4 rhododendrons are hardy from -30 to -45 degrees F. (-34 to -43 C.). Botanical scientists from the University of Minnesota, an area where much of the state is in USDA zone 4, have cracked the code on cold hardiness in Rhodies. In the 1980's, a series called Northern Lights was introduced. These are the hardiest rhododendrons ever found or produced. They can withstand temperatures in zone 4 and even possibly zone 3. The series are hybrids and crosses of Rhododendron x kosteranum and Rhododendron prinophyllum. The specific cross resulted in F1 hybrid seedlings that produced plants of 6 feet (2 m.) in height with primarily pink blooms. New Northern Lights plants are continually being bred or discovered as sports. The Northern Lights series includes:

Northern Hi-Lights – White blooms
Golden Lights – Golden flowers
Orchid Lights – White flowers
Spicy Lights – Salmon blooms
White Lights – White flowers
Rosy Lights – Deeply pink blooms
Pink Lights – Pale, soft pink flowers

There are also several other very hardy rhododendron hybrids on the market.

Other Rhododendrons for Cold Climates

One of the hardiest rhododendrons for zone 4 is PJM (stands for P. J. Mezitt, the hybridizer). It is a hybrid resulting from R. carolinianum and R. dauricum. This shrub is reliably hardy to zone 4a and has small dark green leaves and lovely lavender flowers. Another hardy specimen is R. prinophyllum. While technically an azalea and not a true Rhodie, Rosehill azalea is hardy to -40 degrees F. (-40 C.) and blooms in late May. The plant gets only about 3 feet (1 m.) tall and has exquisite rose-pink flowers with heady fragrance. R. vaseyi produces pale pink blooms in May. Botanists are continually making inroads into increasing cold hardiness in marginal plants. Several new series seem promising as zone 4 rhododendrons are still in trials and not widely available. Zone 4 is a tough one due to its extended and deep freezes, winds, snow, and short growing season. The University of Finland has been working with hardy species to develop even hardier rhododendrons that can withstand temperatures down to -45 degrees F. (-42 C.). The series is called Marjatta and promises to be one of the hardiest Rhodie groups available; however, it is still in trials. The plants have deeply green, large leaves and come in a host of colors. Even hardy rhododendrons will survive harsh winters better if they have well-draining soil, organic mulch, and some protection from harsh wind, which can desiccate the plant. Choosing the right site, adding fertility to soil, checking soil pH, and loosening the area well for roots to establish can mean the difference between a marginally hardy rhododendron surviving an intense winter and the other extreme, which is death.

Zone 4 Evergreen Shrubs – Growing Evergreen Shrubs In Cold Climates

Mary H. Dyer — Sat, 24 Dec 2016 18:02:18 +0000

Evergreen shrubs are important plants in the landscape, providing color and texture all year-round, while providing winter protection for birds and small wildlife. Selecting zone 4 evergreen shrubs requires careful consideration, however, as not all evergreens are equipped to withstand winter temperatures that can plummet to -30 degrees F. (-34 C.). Read on for helpful tips and examples of cold hardy evergreen shrubs, all suitable for growing in zone 4 or below.

Growing Evergreen Shrubs in Cold Climates

Gardeners considering shrubs for zone 4 must be aware that USDA plant hardiness zones are simply temperature guidelines, and although they are helpful, they don’t consider microclimates within a zone, influenced by wind, snow cover, and other factors. Cold hardy evergreen shrubs must be tough and resistant to unavoidable temperature fluctuations that frequently occur in winter.

A thick layer of mulch provides much needed protection to the roots during cold winter months. It’s also a good idea to plant zone 4 evergreen shrubs where the plants aren’t exposed to warm afternoon sun during winter afternoons, as sub-zero temperatures that often follow warm days can do serious damage.

Evergreen Shrubs for Zone 4

Needled evergreen varieties are commonly planted in cooler zones. Most juniper shrubs are suitable for growing in zone 4, and many are tough enough to tolerate zones 2 and 3. Juniper is available in low growing, spreading varieties and more upright types.

Similarly, most types of arborvitaes are extremely cold hardy evergreen shrubs. Spruce, pine, and fir are also very cold hardy evergreen. All three are available in a range of sizes and forms. Of the above-mentioned needle-type plants, here are some good selections:

Buffalo juniper (Juniperus sabina ‘Buffalo’)
Emerald Green arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’)
Birds Nest Norway spruce (Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’)
Blue Wonder spruce (Picea glauca ‘Blue Wonder’)
Big Tuno mugo pine (Pinus mugo ‘Big Tuna’)
Austrian pine (Pinus nigra)
Russian cypress (Microbiota decussata)

Zone 4 evergreen shrubs are popular in the landscape too. Here are some suitable broadleaf evergreen choices for this zone:

Purple Leaf wintercreeper (Euonymus fortunei ‘Coloratus’)
Winter Red holly (Ilex verticillata ‘Winter Red’)
Bearberry/Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos)
Bergenia/Pig squeak (Bergenia cordifolia)

Cold Hardy Annuals – Growing Annuals In Zone 4

Darcy Larum — Sat, 24 Dec 2016 01:00:15 +0000

While zone 4 gardeners are used to having to select trees, shrubs, and perennials that can withstand our frigid winters, the sky’s the limit when it comes to annuals. By definition, an annual is a plant that completes its entire life cycle in one year. It germinates, grows, blooms, sets seeds, and then dies all within one year. Therefore, a true annual is not a plant you have to worry about overwintering in cold climates. However, in zone 4 we tend to grow other, less hardy plants like geraniums or lantana as annuals even though they are perennials in warmer zones. Continue reading to learn about growing annuals in zone 4 and overwintering frost sensitive plants in frost prone areas.

Cold Hardy Annuals

“Annual” is a term we use a little loosely in cool climates for basically anything we grow that cannot survive outdoors in our winters. Tropical plants like cannas, elephant ear, and dahlias are often sold as annuals for zone 4, but their bulbs can be dug up in autumn to be dried and stored indoors through the winter. Plants that are perennials in warmer climates but grown as zone 4 annuals may include:

However, many people in cold climates will simply take these plants indoors through winter and then place them outdoors again in spring. Some true annuals, like snapdragons and violas, will self-sow. Although the plant dies in fall, it leaves behind seeds that lay dormant through winter and grow into a new plant in spring. Not all plant seeds can survive the cold winters of zone 4 though.

Growing Annuals in Zone 4

Some important things to know about growing annuals in zone 4 is that our last frost date can range anywhere from April 1st to mid-May. For this reason, many people in zone 4 will start their seeds indoors in late February to mid-March. Most zone 4 gardeners do not plant their gardens or set annuals out until Mother’s Day or mid-May to avoid damage from late frosts. Sometimes you just have spring fever though and can’t resist purchasing those lush baskets that stores begin to sell in early April. In this case, it’s important to keep an eye daily on the weather forecast. If there is frost in the forecast, move annuals indoors or cover them with sheets, towels, or blankets until the danger of frost has passed. As a garden center worker in zone 4, every spring I have customers who plant annuals or vegetables too early and lose almost all of them due to late frosts in our area. Another important thing to keep in mind in zone 4 is that we can begin to have frosts in early October. If you plan to overwinter frost sensitive plants indoors through winter, start preparing them in September. Dig up canna, dahlia, and other tropical bulbs and let them dry out. Put plants like rosemary, geranium, lantana, etc. into pots that you can easily move inside as needed. Also, be sure to treat any plants that you intend to overwinter indoors for pests in September. You can do this by spraying them with a mixture of dish soap, mouthwash, and water or by simply wiping all surfaces of the plant with rubbing alcohol. The short growing season of zone 4 also means that you must pay attention to “days to maturity” on plant tags and seed packets. Some annuals and vegetables must be started indoors in late winter or early spring so they will have enough time to mature. For example, I love Brussels sprouts, but my one and only attempt to grow them failed because I planted them too late in spring and they did not have adequate time to produce before an early autumn frost killed them. Don't be afraid to try new things. Many beautiful tropical plants and zone 5 or higher perennials can be grown as annuals for zone 4.

Cold Hardy Vines: Are There Perennial Vines For Zone 4 Gardens

Liz Baessler — Fri, 23 Dec 2016 18:00:34 +0000

Finding good climbing plants for cold climates can be tricky. Sometimes it feels like all the best and brightest vines are native to the tropics and can’t tolerate a frost, let alone a long cold winter. While this is true in a lot of cases, there are plenty of perennial vines for zone 4 conditions, if you just know where to look. Keep reading to learn more about cold hardy vines, in particular zone 4 vine plants.

Cold Hardy Vines for Zone 4

Ivy

Especially popular in New England, where these cold hardy vines climb up the buildings to give the Ivy League schools their name, Boston ivy, Engleman ivy, Virginia creeper, and English ivy are all hardy to zone 4.

Grapes

A huge number of grapevine varieties are hardy to zone 4. Before planting grapes, ask yourself what you want to do with them. Do you want to make jam? Wine? Eat them fresh off the vine? Different grapes are bred for different purposes. Make sure you get the one you want.

Honeysuckle

The honeysuckle vine is hardy down to zone 3 and produces extremely fragrant flowers in early to midsummer. Opt for native North American varieties instead of the invasive Japanese variety.

Hops

Hardy down to zone 2, hops vines are extremely tough and fast growing. Their female flower cones are one of the key ingredients in beer, making these vines an excellent choice for home brewers.

Clematis

Hardy down to zone 3, these flowering vines are a popular choice in many northern gardens. Divided into three distinct groups, these vines can be a little confusing to prune. As long as you know the group your clematis vine belongs to, however, pruning should be easy.

Hardy kiwi

These fruits aren’t just for the grocery store; many types of kiwis can be grown in the landscape. Hardy kiwi vines are usually hardy to zone 4 (arctic varieties are even tougher). The self-fertile variety sets fruit without the need for separate male and female plants, while “Arctic Beauty” is grown primarily for its impressive, variegated leaves of green and pink.

Trumpet vine

Hardy down to zone 4, this extremely vigorous vine produces lots of bright orange trumpet-shaped flowers. Trumpet vine spreads very easily and should only be planted against a sturdy structure and monitored for suckers.

Bittersweet

Hardy to zone 3, the vigorous bittersweet plant turns an attractive yellow in the fall. Both male and female vines are necessary for the beautiful reddish orange berries that appear in the fall.

Zone 4 Xeriscape Plants – What Are Some Cold Hardy Xeriscape Plants

Bonnie L. Grant — Fri, 23 Dec 2016 14:00:24 +0000

Temperatures in zone 4 can fall between -30 down to -20 degrees F. (-34 to -29 C.). These areas can get downright cold in winter but often have hot, short summers, requiring cold hardy xeriscape plants that can survive ice and snow but conserve water in the growing season. Zone 4 xeriscape plants must be the most adaptable of flora, developing hardiness in two types of weather extremes. Some tips and lists on the perfect cold region xeriscape plants can get you started on the path to drought garden success.

What are Cold Hardy Xeriscape Plants?

Xeriscaping is all the rage. Conserving our natural resources and avoiding waste while keeping our utility bills down is the goal. Sadly, many xeriscape plants hail from regions with consistent warm temperatures year-round and are not suitable for zone 4 gardens. There is light at the end of the tunnel, however, as zone 4 regions such as Colorado, Montana, and North Dakota extension services have compiled lists of plants that will not only survive but thrive in these cold season climates. Xeriscape plants are used in a dry garden, or one which doesn't receive supplemental irrigation. Often, the soil is sandy or gritty and the area may be in scorching sun or hilled, which allows any moisture to drain off before plant roots can uptake it. In zone 4 regions, the area may also be subjected to extreme ice, snow, and sustained cold in winter. The average annual temperatures in these zones are not optimum for many plants' growth. This can be a challenging situation for the gardener. Xeriscape gardening in zone 4 requires careful planning and selection of plants that are deemed hardy in cool climates. There are seven effective steps to implementing a xeriscape garden in any situation. These are: planning, zoning of plants, soil, efficient irrigation, turf choice and alternatives, mulching, and ongoing maintenance.

Flowering Drought Tolerant Zone 4 Plants

The main goal is to find plants that are sustainable in winter cold and summer's dry heat, but why not also make the area attractive and a draw for pollinators such as butterflies and bees? Choosing native plants is often the best way to select drought tolerant specimens because they have already adapted to the region's fluxes of temperature. You may also opt for non-native plants but be very choosy on the varieties and make sure they are hardy to zone 4. Some ideas for beautiful zone 4 color include:

Trees and Shrubs as Zone 4 Xeriscape Plants

Trees and shrubs are also useful for xeriscape gardening in zone 4. While some may be evergreen and give interest year-round, others are deciduous but provide colorful fall displays and may also have persistent inflorescences. Still others provide human and wildlife food often into winter. Each gardener must assess his/her own wants and needs in the plants established in the xeriscape garden. Drought tolerant zone 4 plants in this category must still be hardy enough to handle the extreme cold. Creating microclimates can help encourage the use of plants on the edge of this hardiness. These might be areas with some natural or manmade protection, installing on southern walls to avoid northern winds, and maximize sunlight or even using hardy plants to shield slightly less hardy specimens. Trees

Ponderosa pine
Colorado blue spruce
Rocky Mountain juniper
Quaking aspen
Green ash
Limber pine
Crabapple
Downy hawthorn
Bur oak
Russian hawthorn
Amur maple
Honey locust
Mugo pine

Shrubs

There are many more appropriate drought tolerant plants for zone 4 gardens. While zone and drought tolerance are important considerations, you must also take into account lighting needs, size, invasive potential, maintenance, and growth rate. Plants with the potential to become damaged in extreme cold can also be protected with coverings and by mulching the root zone. Mulching also serves to conserve moisture and enhance fertility and drainage. Planning a xeriscape garden in any zone requires some design and research to identify the right plants that will fulfill your dream and needs.

Cold Hardy Hydrangeas: Choosing Hydrangeas For Zone 4

Bonnie L. Grant — Fri, 23 Dec 2016 01:04:43 +0000

Almost everybody is familiar with the hydrangea. This old-fashioned bloomer is a staple in mature landscapes and has captured the imagination of many traditional and modern gardeners.

Botanical experimentation has developed varieties of hydrangeas for cold climates as well as specimens that conform to any size preference, bloom form, and resistance to certain diseases. This means there are even hydrangeas for zone 4, in fact it's easy to find the best hydrangeas by zone nowadays, so northern gardeners don't have to forgo these eye-catching bushes.

Cold Hardy Hydrangeas

Growing hydrangeas in zone 4 was once a no-no due to their frost and snow tenderness. Today, we are fortunate enough to have plant enthusiasts that are constantly developing new species and cultivars with the ability to withstand extreme temperatures.

There are now numerous cold hardy hydrangeas from which to choose, with the leading hardy cultivars stemming from H. paniculata and H. arborescens. The former is a panicle forming bush while the latter is in the smooth leaf category. Both bloom on new wood so their buds aren't killed off in winter.

Hydrangeas are classified by their blooms and leaves. While the huge French hydrangeas with their mophead clusters of flowers may be the most familiar, there are also lacecaps and panicle forming varieties. French hydrangeas are only reliably hardy to about USDA zone 5. Similarly, the lacecap varieties may also only withstand temperatures to zone 5.

The panicle varieties have some species that are hardy down to zone 3 and even "shoulder" hardy specimens can survive in microclimates or areas of protection in the landscape. One of the oldest of this group is 'Grandiflora,' which originated in 1867. It has a prolific blooming habit, but the stems are floppy, and the heads nod in airy indifference. More compact and tidy cultivars are available which will still reliably produce blooms from June to September.

Panicle Forming Zone 4 Hydrangea Varieties

Choosing hydrangeas for cold climates depends upon your vision as well as the USDA designation for zone. Some plants develop arching stems while others are tightly formed bushes. Flower and leaf differences are also considerations for zone 4 hydrangea varieties.

As one of the hardiest species of hydrangeas for zone 4, H. paniculata produces long, conical clusters of tiny flowers. Since they bloom on new wood, there is no loss of bud in winter, and you can prune them quite harshly in spring and still expect flowers that season.

Panicle types are native to Japan and China and form bushes of 6 to 10 feet (2-3 m.) in height with a similar spread. These are some of the best hydrangeas for cold climates. Some forms to try include:

Grandiflora – Creamy white blooms, often called Pee Gee
Limelight – Startling lime green flowers
Compacta – Great for smaller spaces or containers, 4 feet (1 m.) tall
Pink Diamond – Antique blush blooms
Tardiva – Late blooming variety
Pinky Winky – Lovely rose-pink flowers
Quick Fire – Starts out white and turns reddish pink
White Moth – Flower heads may reach 14 inches (36 cm.) in width

Hardy Smooth Hydrangea Varieties

The smooth hydrangea, or Hydrangea arborescens, is smaller than most panicle varieties. They develop into bushes of only 3 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) tall and have long-lasting, mainly green maturing to white blooms. These compact shrubs have the typical ball form flower heads and large leaves.

Plants are tolerant of a wide range of soil pH levels and can bloom in partial shade locations. They also bloom off the spring wood, which preserves the buds from freezes. One of the most common is ‘Annabelle,’ a snowball form with huge creamy blooms up to 8 inches (20 cm.) across. Stems are stout and do not droop even when flowers are laden with rain. This outstanding performer is a parent to several spin off cultivars.

Grandiflora – Sometimes called Hills of Snow due to its prolific but small white flower clusters
White Dome – Thick round clusters of ivory flowers and vigorous grower
Incrediball – As the name implies, this has one of the more outstanding huge, white flower heads
Incrediball Blush – Same as above only in a sweet pale pink color
Haas' Halo – Unique arborescent with lacecap type white blooms

Zone 4 Nut Trees – Tips On Growing Nut Trees In Zone 4

Mary H. Dyer — Thu, 22 Dec 2016 18:00:13 +0000

Nut trees are magnificent, multipurpose trees that provide shade on the hottest days and brighten the environment with bright color in autumn. Of course, that’s a bonus to their primary purpose – providing bushels of flavorful, nutritious nuts. If you’re gardening in zone 4, one of the coolest northern climates, you’re in luck as there’s no shortage of hardy nut trees that grow in zone 4 gardens. Read on to learn about some of the best zone 4 nut trees, and a few helpful tips for growing them.

Growing Nut Trees in Zone 4

Growing nut trees requires patience, as many are slow to produce nuts. Walnut and chestnut, for example, eventually turn into majestic specimens, but depending on the variety, they may take up to 10 years to bear fruit. On the other hand, some nut trees, including hazelnuts (filberts), may produce nuts within three to five years. Nut trees aren’t terribly fussy, but all require plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.

Selecting Nut Trees for Zone 4

Here are some common cold hardy nut trees for zone 4 climates. English walnut (Carpathian walnut): Large trees with attractive bark that lightens with maturity. Northern pecan (Carya illinoensis): A tall shade producer with large, tasty nuts. Although this pecan may be self-pollinating, it helps to plant another tree nearby. King nut hickory (Carya laciniosa ‘Kingnut’): This hickory tree is highly ornamental with textural, shaggy bark. The nuts, as the name indicates, are super-size. Hazelnut/filbert (Corylus spp.): This tree provides great winter interest with bright reddish orange foliage. Hazelnut trees usually produces nuts within about three years. Black walnut (Juglans nigra): A popular, show-growing tree, black walnut eventually reaches heights of up to 100 feet (30.5 m.). Plant another tree nearby to provide pollination. (Keep in mind that black walnut exudes a chemical known as juglone, which may adversely affect other edible plants and trees.) Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima): This highly ornamental tree provides good shade and fragrant blossoms. The sweet nuts of Chinese chestnut trees may be best roasted or raw, depending on the variety. American chestnut (Castanea dentata): Native to North America, American chestnut is a very large, tall tree with sweet, flavorful nuts. Plant at least two trees in fairly close proximity. Buartnut: This cross between heartnut and butternut produces abundant harvest of tasty nuts and moderate levels of shade. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba): An attractive nut tree, ginkgo displays fan-shaped leaves and pale gray bark. Foliage is an attractive yellow in autumn. Note: Ginkgo is not regulated by the FDA and is listed as an herbal product. The fresh or roasted seeds/nuts contain a toxic chemical which can result in seizures or even death. Unless under the watchful eye of a professional herbalist, this tree is best used for ornamental purposes only.

Zone 4 Cactus Plants: Types Of Cold Hardy Cactus Plants

Bonnie L. Grant — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 18:00:32 +0000

Cactus plants are commonly considered desert denizens. They are in the succulent group of plants and are actually found in more regions than just hot, sandy deserts. These amazingly adaptive plants grow wild as far north as British Columbia and are found natively in most of the states of the U.S., including zone 4. Many of the species in the group are quite cold hardy and will survive in temperatures well below freezing. Growing cacti in cold climates are possible if you choose one of these cold resilient varieties and if you provide some protection and shelter for semi-hardy specimens.

Growing Cactus in Cold Climates

It is almost an addiction once you have been bitten by the cactus bug. That being said, most of us collectors are stuck growing plants indoors as cold northern temperatures can kill our prized specimens. Interestingly, there are zone 4 cactus plants that can survive the temperatures in winter, which can exceed -30 degrees F. (-34 C.) in some areas. The key is to choose cacti for zone 4 that are winter hardy and provide them with a microclimate that can somewhat shelter them. Deserts are generally hot, sandy, and dry. This is where we usually think of cacti growing. Even in such areas, though, the nighttime temperatures can cool down significantly, even reaching negative digits in the colder parts of the year. Many wild cacti must be adapted to the hot, dry summer days as well as the cold, often freezing winter nights. There are also things you can do to help too.

In-ground plants benefit from well-draining soil to prevent root damage when freezes do happen and root rot when soil becomes boggy.
It may also help to install specimens in containers and move them when temperatures get to a threatening level.
Additionally, you may need to cover plants during periods of extreme cold to help keep the air around them slightly warmer and prevent ice or snow from damaging the stems, pads, and trunks.

Cold Hardy Cactus Plants

While most of the cold hardy cacti are quite small, their unique forms can create a fun desert garden space even in the northernmost climates, provided they get adequate sun exposure and good gritty soil. The Echinocereus group is one of the hardiest cactus plants. These types of cold hardy cactus plants can withstand temperatures of -20 degrees F. (-28 C.) and even colder if they are in a sheltered, southern area of the garden. Most of these are small, mounded cacti, with numerous spines of various sizes and beautiful, almost tropical blooms. Claret cup cactus is one in particular. Similar to Echinocereus are the Mammillaria group of cacti. These ball-like cactus produce offsets and in mature forms can develop into rolling mounds of tiny cactus. Mammillaria also produce beautiful, vibrant flowers in spring to summer. Most of the plants in either genus rarely achieve more than 6 inches (15 cm.) in height. They are perfect for small rock gardens or at the edges of paths. Just be cautious where you put them due to the numerous tiny spines. Escobaria is another group of cold-tolerant cacti. Lee's dwarf snowball looks just like its name indicates. It produces little puffed mounds with fine white hairs and over time develops into clusters. In addition to these, there are beehive cactus and plain's pincushion. All are extremely tiny, rarely getting more than a few inches (8 cm.) tall but develop large, colorful flowers. Mountain spiny star is in the family Pediocactus and has terrific cold hardiness. These are ball cactus that rarely form colonies but may grow 12 inches (31 cm.) high and 6 inches (15 cm.) wide. They naturally occur in the mountains of the western United States. Compact, cute little cacti are useful for smaller spaces, but if you really want desert impact, the larger, pad forming cacti are your choice. The Opuntia family of cactus can grow 12 inches (31 cm.) high with pads of up to 5 inches (13 cm.) long. They can become spreading plants 4 feet (1 m.) wide with fleshy pads decorated with tiny spines in clusters. Many produce edible fruits, called tunas, and the pads are also edible once spines and skins are removed. Prickly pear is one of the better-known forms of Opuntia and form mats of pads several feet (1 m.) wide. It is a fast-growing cactus that is both drought tolerant and hardy in zone 4. Well-draining soil is crucial to these types of cold hardy cactus plants. Avoid using organic mulches to protect the root zone as these can hold moisture. Cactus plants naturally reduce their water intake in cold weather and cells in pads dehydrate to avoid freezing and bursting in cold temperatures. Use stone chips or gravel as a mulch.

Growing Cold Hardy Vegetables: Tips On Vegetable Gardening In Zone 4

Mary H. Dyer — Wed, 21 Dec 2016 01:00:37 +0000

Vegetable gardening in zone 4 is a challenge for sure, but it’s definitely possible to grow a bounteous garden, even in a climate with a short growing season. The key is choosing the best vegetables for cold climates. Read on to learn the basics of zone 4 vegetable gardening, along with a few good examples of delicious, nutritious, and cold hardy vegetables.

Best Vegetables for Cold Climates

Here are some suitable vegetables for zone 4 gardening: Swiss Chard: Swiss chard is an attractive vegetable with shiny, arrow-shaped leaves. This plant isn’t only nutritious and delicious, but it can tolerate temps as lows as 15 degrees F. (-9 C.). Leeks: Leeks are remarkably cold hardy vegetables and darker varieties are even more cold tolerant than pale green leeks. Carrots: Carrots are one of the best vegetables for zone 4 because the flavor gets sweeter in cooler temperatures. You may need to plant short or dwarf varieties that don’t take as long to mature. Spinach: Spinach is super easy to grow and absolutely packed with flavor and nutrients. Most importantly, this is one vegetable that thrives in cool weather. Broccoli: Broccoli is a frost-tolerant vegetable that you can actually plant three or four weeks before the last spring frost. Lettuce: Lettuce is a versatile cool season crop, and you can plant a small patch of lettuce seeds every week for several weeks of freshly picked salad greens. Cabbage: Cabbage is ready for picking in a couple of months, which is plenty of time in a zone 4 garden. Visit your local garden center and look for starter plants labeled “early cabbage.” Radishes: Radishes grow so quickly that you’ll be able to plant several succession crops with no need for starting seeds indoors. This definitely makes radishes one of the best vegetables for cold climates. Peas: Peas are fun to grow, and the blooms are pretty. Plant peas against a fence and let them climb.

Zone 4 Vegetable Gardening

Read seed packets carefully and choose cold hardy varieties that mature quickly. Cultivar names like “early,” "winter," or “speedy” are good clues. Many vegetables can be planted indoors about six weeks before the last expected frost date. Be patient. Often, it’s easiest to purchase small plants. Either way, don’t transplant tender vegetable plants outdoors until you’re sure the ground is warm, and all danger of frost has passed.

Maples For Cold Climates – Types Of Maple Trees For Zone 4

Liz Baessler — Tue, 20 Dec 2016 18:00:11 +0000

Zone 4 is a difficult area where many perennials and even trees cannot survive the long, cold winter. One tree that comes in many varieties that can endure zone 4 winters is the maple. Keep reading to learn more about cold hardy maple trees and growing maple trees in zone 4.

Cold Hardy Maple Trees for Zone 4

There are plenty of cold hardy maple trees that will make it through a zone 4 winter or colder. This only makes sense, as the maple leaf is the central figure of the Canadian flag. Here are some popular maple trees for zone 4: Amur Maple– Hardy all the way to zone 3a, Amur maple grows to between 15 and 25 feet (5-8 m.) in height and spread. In the fall, its dark green foliage turns bright shades of red, orange, or yellow. Tatarian Maple– Hardy to zone 3, tatarian maples usually reach between 15 and 25 feet (5-8 m.) high and wide. Its large leaves usually turn yellow, and sometimes red, and drop a little early in the fall. Sugar Maple– The source of ever popular maple syrup, sugar maples are hardy down to zone 3 and tend to reach between 60 and 75 feet (18-23 m.) in height with a 45 foot (14 m.) spread. Red Maple– Hardy to zone 3, the red maple gets its name not just for its brilliant fall foliage, but also for its red stems that keep providing color in winter. It grows 40 to 60 feet (12-18 m.) high and 40 feet (12 m.) wide. Silver Maple– Hardy to zone 3, the undersides of its leaves are silver in color. Silver maple is fast growing, reaching between 50 and 80 feet (15-24 m.) high with a spread of 35 to 50 feet (11-15 m.). Unlike most maples, it prefers shade. Growing maple trees in zone 4 is relatively straightforward. Apart from the silver maple, most maple trees prefer full sun, though they will tolerate a little shade. This, along with their color, makes them excellent standalone trees in the backyard. They tend to be healthy and hardy with few pest problems.

Zone 4 Yucca Plants – What Are Some Winter Hardy Yuccas

Bonnie L. Grant — Mon, 19 Dec 2016 22:00:14 +0000

Adding a touch of desert elegance to the northern or cold-season garden can be challenging. Lucky for those of us in cold zones, there are winter hardy yuccas that can withstand temperatures of -20 to -30 degrees F. (-28 to -34 C.). These are zone 4 average cold temperatures and require one of the cold hardy yucca varieties if you wish your plant to survive winter. This article will detail some of the zone 4 yucca plants suitable for such chilly climes.

Growing Yuccas in Zone 4

Southwestern plants are appealing due to their diversity and adaptability. Yuccas are primarily found in the tropical to subtropical Americas and tend to prefer warm, dry regions. However, there are some cold-hardy yucca varieties that are suitable for extremely cold temperatures. In fact, even though we associate these relatives of Agave with desert heat and dryness, some forms have been found growing in the crisp region of the Rocky Mountains in winter. You just need to make sure you choose an appropriate variety with cold tolerance and adaptability to freezing temperatures. Simply selecting cold hardy specimens is no guarantee they will thrive in such extreme weather conditions. Heavy snow can damage foliage and deep freezes that are longer than a week can adversely affect the roots of shallowly planted yucca. Some tips can help successfully grow yuccas in zone 4.

Planting your yucca in a microclimate in your garden can help protect the plant from some of the cold temperatures.
Using a southern-facing wall or fence can help reflect the winter sun and produce a moderately warmer region. It also reduces the plant's exposure to cold northerly winds.
Do not water plants before a hard freeze, as excess moisture in the soil can turn into ice and damage the roots and crown.

In extreme cases, growing yuccas in zone 4 may require more obvious protective steps. Use organic mulch around the root zone in a layer of up to 3 inches (8 cm.) and protect plants in exposed situations by placing plastic over the entire plant during the night. Remove it during the day so moisture can escape and the plant can respirate.

Zone 4 Yucca Plants

Some yuccas can grow into trees, such as the Joshua tree, while others retain a tidy, low rosette perfect for containers, borders, and accent plants. The smaller forms are usually hardy in areas with consistent snow and freezing temperatures.

Yucca glauca, or small soapweed, is one of the best winter hardy yuccas and has lovely, narrow, bluish green leaves. The plant is hardy in much of the midwestern United States and can withstand temperatures of -30 to -35 F. (-34 to -37 C.).
The tidy little 2 foot (61 cm.) tall Yucca harrimaniae, or Spanish bayonet, has very sharp leaves as the name suggests. It is drought tolerant and thrives in cold winter regions.
The dwarf yucca, Yucca nana, seems made for container growing. It is a neat little plant of only 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm.) in height.
Adam's needle is a classic cold hardy yucca. There are several cultivars of this zone 4 plant, Yucca filimentosa. 'Bright Edge' has gold margins, while 'Color Guard' has a central cream stripe. Each plant approaches 3 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) in height. 'Golden Sword' may or may not be in the same species depending upon who you consult. It is a 5 to 6 foot (1.5-2 m.) tall plant with narrow leaves sliced through the center with a yellow stripe. These yuccas all produce flower stalks decorated with creamy bell-shaped flowers.
Yucca baccata is another cold hardy example. Also known as banana or Datil yucca, it can survive temperatures of -20 degrees F. (-28 C.) and possibly colder with some protection. Plants have blue to green leaves and may produce thick trunks.

Cold Hardy Hostas: Best Hosta Plants For Zone 4 Gardens

Mary H. Dyer — Mon, 19 Dec 2016 01:06:29 +0000

You’re in luck if you’re a northern gardener looking for cold hardy hostas, as hostas are remarkably tough and resilient. Exactly how cold hardy are hostas? These shade-tolerant plants are suitable for growing in zone 4, and many do just fine a little further north in zone 3. In fact, hostas require a period of dormancy in winter and most don’t take a shine to warm southern climates.

Zone 4 Hostas

When it comes to selecting hosta varieties for northern gardens, nearly any hosta is perfect. However, it appears that light-colored hostas are more susceptible to damage by frost. Here is a list of some of the most popular hosta plants for zone 4. Giant Hostas (20 to 48 inches (50-122 cm.) tall)

‘Big Mama’ (Blue)
‘Titanic’ (Chartreuse-green with golden borders)
‘Komodo Dragon’ (Dark green)
‘Humpback Whale’ (Blue-green)

Large Hostas (3 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) wide)

‘Elvis Lives’ (Blue fading to blue-green)
‘Hollywood Lights’ (Dark green with yellow centers)
‘Parasol’ (Blue-green with creamy yellow borders)
‘Sugar and Spice’ (Green with creamy borders)

Mid-Size Hostas (1 to 3 feet (30-90 cm.) wide)

‘Abiqua Drinking Gourd’ (Powdery blue-green)
‘Cathedral Window’ (Gold with dark green borders)
‘Dancing Queen’ (Gold)
‘Lakeside Shore Master’ (Chartreuse with blue borders)

Small/Dwarf Hostas (4 to 9 inches (10-22 cm.) tall)

‘Blue Mouse Ears’ (Blue)
‘Church Mouse’ (Green)
‘Pocketful of Sunshine’ (Golden with dark green borders)
‘Banana Puddin’ (Buttery yellow)

Tips on Growing Cold Hardy Hostas

Be careful of planting hostas in places where the soil may warm up earlier in late winter, such as south-facing slopes or areas that get a lot of bright sunlight. Such areas can encourage growth that may be nipped by an early spring freeze. Mulch is always a good idea, but should be kept to no more than 3 inches (7.5 cm.) once the weather warms in spring, especially if your garden is home to slugs or snails. By the way, hostas with thick, textured or corrugated leaves tend to be more slug-resistant. If your hosta is nipped by an unexpected frost, keep in mind that the damage is rarely life-threatening.

Hibiscus For Cold Climates: Tips On Growing Hardy Hibiscus In Zone 4

Liz Baessler — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 14:00:05 +0000

When you think of hibiscus, the first thing that comes to mind is probably those beautiful, tropical plants that thrive in the heat. There’s no hope of growing them in cold climates, right? Will hibiscus grow in zone 4? While it is true that the classic hibiscus is native to the tropics, there exists a very popular hybrid called Hibiscus moscheutos that’s hardy all the way down to USDA zone 4. Keep reading to learn more about growing hardy hibiscus in zone 4.

Growing Hardy Hibiscus in Zone 4

Hibiscus plants for cold climates are difficult to come by, as most of the hardy hibiscus plants only tolerate winter chill to zone 5. That being said, Hibiscus moscheutos, also called Rose Mallow or Swamp Mallow, is a zone 4 hardy hibiscus that was developed in the 1950s by the three Fleming brothers. These hibiscus plants for zone 4 have lots of big, bright flowers that bloom in late summer. The flowers themselves are somewhat short-lived, but there are so many of them that the plant remains colorful for a long time. The plants are difficult to transplant, so pick your location with care. They like full sun but can handle a little bit of shade. They will grow to about 4 feet (1 m.) high and 3 feet (1 m.) wide, so leave them plenty of space. They do well in most types of soil, but they grow best in moist, rich soil. Amend with some organic material if your soil is very clay heavy. The zone 4 hardy hibiscus is an herbaceous perennial, which means it dies back to the ground each winter and regrows from its roots in the spring. Allow your plant to die back with the autumn frost, then trim it down to the ground. Mulch heavily over the stump and pile snow on top of the spot when it comes. Mark the location of your hibiscus-- the plants can be slow to start in the spring. If your plant gets hit by a spring frost, prune back any damaged wood to allow for new growth.

Flower Bulbs For Zone 4: Tips On Planting Bulbs In Cold Climates

Bonnie L. Grant — Fri, 16 Dec 2016 14:00:08 +0000

Preparation is the key to seasonal bulb color. Spring bulbs need to go into the ground in fall while summer bloomers should be installed by spring. Zone 4 flowering bulbs follow these same rules but must also be hardy enough to withstand winter temperatures of -30 to -20 degrees F. (-34 to -28 C.). These chilly temperatures can injure bulbs that are not tolerant of freezing. It is incumbent on the gardener to verify temperature requirements when planting bulbs in cold climates. Failure to check hardiness may result in fewer flowers and in some cases, completely wasted bulbs.

Fall Planted Flower Bulbs for Zone 4

There are a host of cold-hardy bulbs. Many spring-blooming varieties actually require a chilling period to break the dormancy of the embryonic plant inside the bulb. A word of caution… many of the fall-planted bulbs are not hardy when confronted with extremely deep freezes. Culture is also a factor when planting bulbs in cold climates. Preparing the soil and enhancing drainage and fertility can help ensure color displays from bulbs. Spring planted bulbs are a zone 4 gardener’s best friend because they are planted after danger of frost or planted in containers in a warm area for a jump start on growth. It is the fall-planted, summer bloomers that are of concern in cold climates. These are going to experience some extreme temperatures, rainfall, and ice. Proper depth and soil preparation can help keep these viable as can thick layers of organic mulch. Some of the most cold-hardy bulbs are:

Any of these flowering plants should withstand zone 4 winters with a little care.

Spring Planted Zone 4 Flowering Bulbs

Bulbs, corms, and tubers planted in spring will produce blooms in summer. This can be a challenge in regions with short growing seasons. In USDA zone 4, the best time to plant summer blooming plants is after the date of the last frost or, in general, April to June. This doesn't give some of the bigger producers much time to flower, so some species such as dahlias, Asiatic lilies, and gladiolus should be started indoors six weeks before planting outside. Even in cold zones, you can plant some of the glorious warm season bloomers with a little preplanning. Some bulbs to try might be:

Star Gazer lily
Summer hyacinth
Saffron crocus
Crocosmia
Ranunculus
Foxtail lily
Freesia
Pineapple lily
Hardy cyclamen
Summer Cheer daffodil
Amaryllis

A note about hardy bulbs that bloom in summer. Many of these should still be lifted and stored over winter, as they may be affected by boggy, frozen soil and extended freezes. Simply store them in a cool, dry location and replant them when the soil is workable in early spring.

Cold Season Bulb Tips

Planting depth and soil preparation are some of the important steps to take to ensure the blooming of bulbs in cold regions. Zone 4 experiences a wide variety of winter weather and summers may be hot and short. Good soil conditions can help prevent rot and freeze damage while allowing good root formation and nutrient delivery. Always till your garden bed to a depth of at least 12 inches (31 cm.) and incorporate compost or gritty material to increase porosity and reduce soggy soil areas. Bulb depths differ by plant type. The rule of thumb is to plant at least two to three times as deep as the bulb is tall. Deeper planting gives plants a blanket of soil to help prevent freeze damage, but they can't be so deep that the young sprouts can't break through to the surface of the ground. Many garden centers and online catalogues list the exact planting depth, and the packaging should also indicate how many inches (or cm.) deep the bulb should be installed. Cover fall-planted bulbs with mulch and pull it away in early spring. Summer-blooming bulbs will also benefit from mulch but if you have a doubt about the plant's hardiness, it is easy enough to lift and store them for the next spring's planting.

Clematis Varieties For Zone 4: Growing Clematis In Zone 4 Gardens

Darcy Larum — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 22:00:48 +0000

While not all are considered cold hardy clematis vines, many of the popular varieties of clematis can be grown in zone 4, with the proper care. Use the information in this article to help determine suitable clematis for cold climates of zone 4.

Choosing Zone 4 Clematis Vines

Jackmanii is probably the most popular and reliable zone 4 clematis vine. Its deep purple flowers bloom first in spring and then again in late summer through fall, blooming on new wood. Sweet Autumn is another popular cold hardy clematis vine. It is covered in small, white, extremely fragrant flowers in late summer through fall. Listed below are additional clematis varieties for zone 4. Chevalier – large, lavender-purple blooms Rebecca – bright red blooms Princess Diana – dark pink, tulip-shaped flowers Niobe – deep red flowers Nelly Moser – light pink flowers with dark pink-red stripes down each petal Josephine – double lilac-pink flowers Duchess of Albany – tulip-shaped, light to dark pink blooms Bee’s Jubilee – small pink and red flowers Andromeda – semi-double, white-pink flowers Ernest Markham – large, magenta-red blooms Avant Garde – burgundy flowers, with pink, double centers Innocent Blush – semi-double flowers with “blushes” of dark pink Fireworks – purple flower with dark purple-red stripes down each petal

Growing Clematis in Zone 4 Gardens

Clematis like moist but well-draining soil in a site where their “feet” or root zone is shaded, and their “head” or aerial parts of the plant are in the sun. In northern climates, cold hardy clematis vines that bloom on new wood should be cut back in late autumn to winter and heavily mulched for winter protection. Cold hardy clematis that bloom on old wood should only be deadheaded as needed throughout the blooming season, but the root zone should also be heavily mulched as protection through winter.

Zone 4 Butterfly Bush Options – Can You Grow Butterfly Bushes In Cold Climates

Mary H. Dyer — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 14:00:43 +0000

If you’re attempting to grow butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) in USDA planting zone 4, you have a challenge on your hands, as this is slightly chillier than the plants really like. However, it really is possible to grow most types of butterfly bushes in zone 4 – with stipulations. Read on to learn about growing butterfly bushes in cold climates.

How Hardy is Butterfly Bush?

Although most types of butterfly bush grow in zones 5 through 9, some tender types need milder winter temperatures found in at least zone 7 or 8. These warm climate butterfly bushes won’t survive a zone 4 winter, so read the label carefully to be sure you’re purchasing a cold hardy butterfly bush suitable for a minimum of zone 5. Reportedly, some of the Buddleja Buzz cultivars may be more appropriate butterfly bushes for zone 4 growing. While most sources indicate their hardiness as zone 5, many are hardy from zones 4-5. It may sound like a mixed message, but you can, in fact, grow a butterfly bush in zone 4. Butterfly bush is evergreen in warm climates and tends to be deciduous in cooler climates. However, zone 4 is downright cold, so you can expect that your butterfly bush will freeze to the ground when temperatures plummet. That being said, this hardy bush will return to beautify your garden in spring. A thick layer of straw or dry leaves (at least 6 inches or 15 cm.) will help protect the plants during the winter. However, butterfly bushes are late to break dormancy in cold climates, so give the plant a little time and don’t panic if your butterfly bush looks dead. Note: It’s important to note that Buddleja davidii can be extremely weedy. It has the potential to be invasive anywhere, and so far has naturalized (escaped cultivation and become wild) in at least 20 states. It is a serious problem in the Pacific Northwest and sale of butterfly bush is prohibited in Oregon. If this is a concern in your area, you may want to consider the less invasive butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa). In spite of its name, butterfly weed isn’t overly aggressive and the orange, yellow and red blooms are great for attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Butterfly weed is easy to grow and, more importantly, will easily tolerate zone 4 winters, as it is hardy to zone 3.

Zone 4 Shade Loving Plants – Best Shade Plants For Zone 4 Gardens

Liz Baessler — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 22:00:12 +0000

It can be hard finding plants that last through the winter in zone 4. It can be just as daunting to find plants that thrive in the shade. If you know where to look, however, your options for zone 4 shade gardening are pretty great. Keep reading to learn more about picking cold hardy plants for a shade garden, particularly shade plants for zone 4.

Zone 4 Shade Gardening

Choosing cold hardy plants for a shade garden need not be a daunting task. There are actually plenty of zone 4 shade loving plants out there: Hellebore – Suited for dappled light to heavy shade. Hosta – Available in hundreds of varieties with varying shade requirements. Bleeding Heart – Beautiful, signature flowers, partial to full shade. Japanese Painted Fern – Full shade or some sun if the soil is kept moist. Ajuga – Tolerates full sun to full shade. Foamflower – Groundcover that prefers partial to heavy shade. Astilbe – Likes rich, moist soil and full shade. Siberian Bugloss – Likes partial to heavy shade and moist soil. Ladybell – Tolerates full sun to moderate shade and produces blue bell-shaped flowers. Oriental Lily – Tolerates full sun to partial shade. Not quite all varieties are hardy to zone 4. New England Aster – Tolerates full sun to light shade. Azalea – Does very well in shade, but only some varieties are hardy to zone 4.

Picking Shade Plants for Zone 4

When planting shade plants for zone 4, it’s important to pay attention to the plant's needs. Even if a plant is rated for full shade, if it’s languishing, try moving it! See what works best with your climate and your level of shade.

Ornamental Grasses For Zone 4: Choosing Hardy Grasses For The Garden

Darcy Larum — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 01:00:01 +0000

Ornamental grasses add height, texture, movement, and color to any garden. They attract birds and butterflies in the summer and provide food and shelter for wildlife in the winter. Ornamental grasses grow quickly and require very little maintenance. They can be used as screens or specimen plants. Most ornamental grasses are not bothered by deer, rabbits, insect pests, or disease. Many ornamental grasses that are commonly used in the landscape are hardy to zone 4 or below. Continue reading to learn more about cold hardy grasses for the garden.

Ornamental Grass for Cold Climates

Ornamental grasses are usually divided into two categories: cool-season grasses or warm-season grasses.

Cool-season grasses sprout up quickly in spring, bloom in early summer, may go dormant in the heat of mid to late summer, and then grow again when temperatures cool in early autumn.
Warm-season grasses can be slow growing in spring but really take off in the heat of mid to late summer and bloom in late summer and fall.

Growing both cool-season and warm-season can provide year-round interest in the landscape.

Cool Season Ornamental Grasses for Zone 4

Feather Reed grass – Feather Reed grass has early plumes that are 4 to 5 feet (1-1.5 m.) tall and cream-colored to purple depending on the variety. Karl Foerster, Overdam, Avalanche, and Eldorado are popular varieties for zone 4. Tufted Hairgrass – Generally, reaching 3 to 4 feet (1 m.) tall and wide, this grass likes sun to part shade locations. Northern Lights is a popular variegated cultivar of tufted hairgrass for zone 4. Blue Fescue – Most blue fescue is dwarf and clump forming with bluish grass blades. Elijah Blue is popular for borders, specimen plants, and container accents in zone 4. Blue Oat grass – offering tall clumps of attractive blue foliage, you can’t go wrong with blue oat grass in the garden. The variety Sapphire makes an excellent zone 4 specimen plant.

Warm Season Ornamental Grasses for Zone 4

Miscanthus – Also called maiden grass, Miscanthus is one of the most popular cold hardy grasses for the garden. Zebrinus, Morning Light, and Gracillimus are popular varieties in zone 4. Switchgrass – Switchgrass can get 2 to 5 feet (61 cm. to 1.5 m.) tall and up to 3 feet (91 cm.) wide. Shenandoah and Heavy Metal are popular varieties in zone 4. Grama Grass – Tolerant to poor soils and cool temps, both Side Oats Grama and Blue Grama are popular in zone 4. Little Bluestem – Little Bluestem offers blue-green foliage that turns red in fall. Pennisetum – These small fountain grasses typically don’t get larger than 2 to 3 feet (61-91 cm.) tall. They may need extra protection in zone 4 winters. Hameln, Little Bunny, and Burgundy Bunny are popular in zone 4.

Planting with Zone 4 Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses for cold climates require little maintenance. They should be cut back to 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm.) tall once a year in early spring. Cutting them back in autumn can leave them vulnerable to frost damage. Grasses provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife in the winter. Not cutting them back in early spring can delay new growth. If older ornamental grasses begin to die in the center or just aren't growing as well as they used to, divide them in early spring. Certain tender ornamental grasses, like Japanese Blood grass, Japanese Forest grass, and Pennisetum may need extra mulch for winter protection in zone 4.

Zone 4 Dogwood Trees – Planting Dogwood Trees In Cold Climates

Bonnie L. Grant — Mon, 12 Dec 2016 22:00:43 +0000

There are more than 30 species of Cornus, the genus to which dogwoods belong. Many of these are native to North America and are cold hardy from USDA zones 4 to 9. Each species is different and not all are hardy flowering dogwood trees or bushes. Zone 4 dogwood trees are some of the hardiest and can bear temperatures of -20 to -30 degrees F. (-28 to -34 C.). It is important to choose the right species of dogwood trees for zone 4 to ensure their survival and continued beauty in your landscape.

About Cold Hardy Dogwood Trees

Dogwoods are known for their classic foliage and colorful, flower-like bracts. The true flowers are insignificant, but many species also produce ornamental and edible fruits. Planting dogwood trees in cold climates requires some knowledge of the plant's hardiness range and a few tricks to help protect the plant and help it survive some seriously cold weather without damage. Zone 4 is one of the coldest USDA ranges and dogwood trees need to be adaptable to extended winters and freezing temperatures. Cold hardy dogwood trees can withstand winters in zones as low as 2 in some cases, with suitable protection. There are some species, such as Cornus florida, that can only survive in zones 5 to 9, but many others can thrive in truly cold climes. Some trees that are planted in cold regions will fail to produce the colorful bracts but still produce lovely trees with their smooth, elegantly curved leaves. There are many hardy dogwood trees for zone 4 but there are also bushy forms, such as Yellow Twig dogwood, which provides attractive foliage and stems. In addition to hardiness, the size of your tree should be a consideration. Dogwood trees span heights from 15 to 70 feet (5-21 m.) but are more commonly 25 to 30 feet (8-9 m.) tall.

Types of Zone 4 Dogwood Trees

All species of dogwood prefer zones below USDA 9. The majority are actually perfect for cool to temperate climates and have remarkable cold resilience even when ice and snow are present in winter. The twiggy shrub-like forms are generally hardy down to zone 2 and would perform nicely in USDA zone 4. Trees in the Cornus family are usually not quite as hardy as the shrub forms and range from USDA zone 4 to 8 or 9. One of the prettiest hardy flowering dogwood trees is native to eastern North America. It is the Pagoda dogwood with variegated foliage and alternating branches that give it an airy, elegant feel. It is hardy in USDA 4 to 9 and remarkably adaptable to a range of conditions. Other choices might include:

Pink Princess - 20 feet (6 m.) tall, USDA 4 to 9
Kousa - 20 feet (6 m.) tall, USDA 4 to 9
Cornelian cherry - 20 feet (6 m.) tall, USDA 4 to 9
Northern Swamp dogwood - 15 feet (5 m.) tall, USDA 4 to 8
Rough Leaf dogwood - 15 feet (5 m.) tall, USDA 4 to 9
Stiff dogwood - 25 feet (8 m.) tall, USDA 4 to 9

Canadian bunchberry, common dogwood, Red Osier dogwood, and the yellow and red twig varieties are all small to medium sized shrubs that are hardy in zone 4.

Planting Dogwood Trees in Cold Climates

Many dogwood trees tend to send up several branches from the base, giving them a rather unkempt, shrubby appearance. It is easy to train young plants to a central leader for a tidier presentation and easier maintenance. They prefer full sun to moderate shade. Those grown in full shade can get leggy and fail to form colored bracts and flowers. Trees should be planted in well-draining soil with average fertility. Dig holes three times as wide as the root ball and water them well after filling in around the roots with soil. Water daily for a month and then bi-monthly. Dogwood trees do not grow well in drought situations and produce the prettiest visages when given consistent moisture. Cold climate dogwoods benefit from mulching around the root zone to keep the soil warm and prevent competitive weeds. Expect the first cold snap to kill leaves, but most forms of dogwood have lovely skeletons and occasionally persistent fruit, which adds to the winter interest.

Hardy Kiwi Plants – Tips On Growing Kiwi In Zone 4

Darcy Larum — Sat, 10 Dec 2016 01:00:01 +0000

When we think of kiwi fruit, we think of a tropical location. Naturally, something so delicious and exotic must come from an exotic location, right? Actually, kiwi vines can be grown in your own backyard, with some varieties being hardy as far north as zone 4. No need to board a plane to experience fresh kiwi right off the vine. With tips from this article, you can grow your own hardy kiwi plants. Read on to learn about growing kiwi in zone 4.

Kiwi for Cold Climates

While the larger, oval, fuzzy kiwi fruit we find in grocery stores is generally hardy to zones 7 and higher, northern gardeners can grow smaller hardy zone 4 kiwi fruit. Often called kiwi berries because of the smaller fruits which grow in clusters on the vine, hardy kiwi offers the same flavor as its larger, fuzzier, and less hardy cousin, Actinidia chinensis. It is also packed with more vitamin C than most citrus fruits. The varieties Actinidia kolomikta and Actinidia arguta are hardy kiwi vines for zone 4. However, to produce fruit, you need both male and female kiwi vines. Only female vines produce fruit, but a nearby male vine is necessary for pollination. For every one to nine female kiwi plants, you will need one male kiwi plant. Female varieties of A. kolomitka can only be fertilized by male A. kolomitka. Likewise, female A. arguta can only be fertilized by male A. arguta. The only exception is the variety ‘Issai,’ which is a self-fertile hardy kiwi plant. Some hardy kiwi vine varieties that need a male for pollination are:

‘Ananasnaja’
‘Geneva’
‘Meades’
‘Arctic Beauty’
‘MSU’

Zone 4 Invasive Plants – What Are Common Invasive Plants That Thrive In Zone 4

Amy Grant — Tue, 15 Nov 2016 14:00:49 +0000

Invasive plants are those that thrive and aggressively spread in areas that are not their native habitat. These introduced species of plants spread to such an extent that they can do damage to the environment, the economy, or even to our health. USDA zone 4 covers much of the northern portion of the country and, as such, there is a fairly lengthy list of invasive plants that thrive in zone 4. The following article contains information on the most common invasive plants in zone 4, although it is by no means comprehensive, as non-native plants are constantly being introduced.

Zone 4 Invasive Plants

Invasive plants in zone 4 cover lots of territories, but here are some of the most commonly found invasive species with some alternatives you can plant instead.

Gorse and Brooms – Gorse, Scotch broom, and other brooms are common invasive plants that thrive in zone 4. Each mature shrub can produce over 12,000 seeds that can survive in the soil for up to 50 years. These shrubs become highly flammable fuel for wildfires and both the flowers and seeds are toxic to humans and livestock. Non-aggressive plant alternatives for zone 4 include:

Butterfly Bush – Although it provides nectar that attracts pollinators, butterfly bush, or summer lilac, is an extremely hardy invader that spreads via broken stem sections and seeds dispersed by wind and water. It can be found along riverbanks, through forest regions, and in open range areas. Instead, plant:

English Holly – Although the cheerful red berries are often used for holiday décor, don’t encourage resilient English holly. This holly can also invade various habitats, from wetlands to forests. Small mammals and birds that eat the berries spread the seeds far and wide. Try planting other native plants such as:

Blackberry – Himalayan blackberry or Armenian blackberry are extremely hardy and prolific and create dense impenetrable thickets in almost any habitat. These blackberry plants propagate via seeds, root sprouts, and cane tip rooting and are extremely difficult to control. Still want berries? Try planting native:

Polygonum – Several plants in the Polygonum genre are known to be USDA zone 4 invasive plants. Fleece flower, Mexican bamboo, and Japanese knotweed all create dense stands. Knotweeds can become so dense that they affect passage for salmon and other wildlife and restrict access to riverbanks for recreation and fishing. Native species make less invasive options for planting and include:

Russian olive – Russian olive is found primarily along rivers, stream banks, and areas where seasonal rainfall pools. These large shrubs bear dry, mealy fruit that is fed on by small mammals and birds that, again, disperse the seeds. The plant was originally introduced as a wildlife habitat, soil stabilizer, and for use as windbreaks. Less invasive native species include:

Blue elderberry
Scouler's willow
Silver buffaloberry

Saltcedar – Another invasive plant found in zone 4 is saltcedar, so named since the plants exude salts and other chemicals that render the soil inhospitable for other plants to germinate. This large shrub to small tree is a real water hog, which is why it thrives in moist areas such as along rivers or streams, lakes, ponds, ditches, and canals. It not only affects the soil chemistry but also the amount of water available for other plants and also creates fire hazards. It can produce 500,000 seeds in a year that are spread by wind and water.

Tree of Heaven – The tree of heaven is anything but heavenly. It can form dense thickets and pop up in pavement cracks and railroad ties. A tall tree of up to 80 feet (24 m.) in height, leaves can be up to 4 feet (1 m.) in length. The seeds of the tree are affixed with paper-like wings that enable them to travel great distances in the wind. The crushed foliage smells like rancid peanut butter and is thought to produce toxic chemicals that thwart any other healthy plant growth in close proximity.

Other zone 4 Invasives

Additional plants that can become invasive in the cooler climate of zone 4 include:

Although often included in “wildflower” seed mixes, bachelor’s button is actually considered to be an invasive plant in zone 4.
Knapweed is another invasive plant in zone 4 and can form dense areas that affect the value of pastures and rangeland. The seeds of both are spread by grazing animals, machinery, and on shoes or clothing.
Hawkweeds can be found in dense colonies topped by dandelion-like flowers. The stems and leaves exude a milky sap. The plant is easily spread via stolons or by the small, barbed seeds that catch on fur or clothing.
Herb Robert, otherwise known as stinky bob, does indeed stink, and not just from its pungent odor. This invasive plant pops up everywhere.
A tall, up to 10 feet (3 m.) invasive perennial is toadflax. Toadflax, both Dalmatian and yellow, spreads from creeping roots or by seed.
English ivy plants are invaders that endanger tree health. They strangle trees and increase fire hazards. Their rapid growth smothers the forest understory, and the dense growths often harbor pests such as rats.
Old man’s beard is a clematis that bares flowers that look, well, like an old man’s beard. This deciduous vine can grow to 100 feet (30.5 m.) in length. The feathery seeds are easily dispersed far and wide in the wind and one mature plant can produce over 100,000 seeds in a year. Rock clematis is a better native option suited to zone 4.

Of the water-loving invasive plants, there are parrot feather and Brazilian elodea. Both plants spread from broken stem fragments. These aquatic perennials can create dense infestations that trap sediment, restrict water flow, and interfere with irrigation and recreational activities. They are often introduced when people dump pond plants into water bodies.

Purple loosestrife is another aquatic invasive plant that spreads from broken stems as well as seeds. Yellow flag iris, ribbongrass, and reed canary grass are aquatic invaders that spread.

Gardening In Zone 4: Tips For Gardening In Cold Climates

Amy Grant — Sat, 25 Jun 2016 13:00:43 +0000

If you are in USDA zone 4, you’re probably somewhere quite far north. This means that your area gets long, warm days during the summer with high temps in the 70’s and lots of snow and average cold temps of -10 to -20 F. (-23 to -28 C.) in the winter. This translates to a rather short growing season of about 113 days, so vegetable gardening in zone 4 can be challenging. The following article contains some helpful tips for gardening in cold climates and appropriate zone 4 garden plants.

Gardening in Cold Climates

Zone 4 refers to the United States Department of Agriculture’s map identifying your region in relation to what plants will survive in your area. Zones are divided by 10 degree increments and are only using temperature to ascertain survivability. Sunset zones are climate zones that are more specific and take into account your latitude; ocean influence, if any; humidity; rainfall; wind; elevation and even microclimate. If you are in USDA zone 4, your Sunset zone is A1. Narrowing down your climactic zone can really help you decide which plants are possible to grow in your area. There are also other things that you can do to ensure your successful growing of plants for cold climates. First of all, talk to the locals. Anyone that’s been there for a while will no doubt have both failures and successes to tell you about. Build a greenhouse and use raised beds. Also, plant south to north, or north to south. Warmer weather regions are encouraged to plant east to west so the plants shade each other, but not in colder areas, you want maximum sun exposure. Keep a garden journal and record your hits and misses and any other special information.

Plants for Cold Climates

You will no doubt need to do some research on specific varieties of plants that are suited for cold climates. This is where the information gleaned from friends, neighbors, and family that live in your area becomes invaluable. Perhaps one of them knows the exact type of tomato that will garner successful fruit when vegetable gardening in zone 4. Tomatoes generally require warm temps and a longer growing season, so prying this nugget of information out of someone can mean the difference between triumphant tomato growing and dismal failure. For perennials suited as zone 4 gardening plants, any one of the following should do well:

Less hardy perennials can be grown successfully as annuals in colder climates. Coreopsis and Rudbeckia are examples of less hardy perennials that work as plants for cold climates. I prefer to grow the perennials myself since they return year after year, but I always tuck in annuals too. Examples of cold climate annuals are nasturtiums, cosmos and coleus. There are many trees and shrubs that can take the colder temps of zone 4 such as:

As to vegetable gardening, cold season veggies do the best, but with extra TLC, the use of a greenhouse, and/or raised beds combined with black plastic, you can also grow most other common vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, celery, cucumbers, and zucchini. Again, talk to those around you and get some helpful advice regarding which varieties of these veggies worked best for them.