Here in New York State, an hour north of New York City, the Planting Zone used to be Zone 5 but due to rising temperatures, it increased to Zone 6b and 6a depending how close you garden to the Hudson River.

LOOK UP YOUR PLANTING ZONE!

What does it really mean? Well, first of all (I do not shy from politics) despite what comes out of the Oval Office these days, climate change is very real and I would only purchase a perennial or tree if I know it will thrive in at least Zone 7.

I am also not a “purist” and have planted non-natives next to native plants. But know that the QUAILTY of the nectar that pollinators need is BEST when you grow the real native plant that is thriving in your Zone.

NOW is the time to PLAN what you want to grow – vegetables, herbs, and flowers, shrubs, and trees. Get out paper and pencil and mark where your full sun and shady places are and let your tastebuds and color preferences guide your way.

SO GLAD TO WELCOME Gardening Season 2026! A foot of snow on the ground still….but icicles are melting and saw Cardinals, Bluebirds, and an Eagle yesterday.