Kansas Planting Zones: A Guide for Gardeners

What Zone is Kansas in for Planting?

Kansas is a state with a wide range of climates, from the humid eastern plains to the dry western deserts. This means that the best time to plant different crops varies depending on where in the state you live. In general, however, the best time to plant most crops in Kansas is in the spring, after the last frost date.

The USDA plant hardiness zone map is a helpful tool for gardeners in Kansas to determine which plants will thrive in their area. The map divides the United States into 11 hardiness zones, based on the average annual minimum temperature. Kansas is located in hardiness zones 5b through 7a. This means that the average annual minimum temperature in Kansas ranges from -15 degrees Fahrenheit to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here is a table that provides a general overview of the best time to plant different crops in Kansas, based on the USDA plant hardiness zone map:

| Crop | Best Planting Time |
|—|—|
| Vegetables | Spring |
| Fruits | Spring or fall |
| Flowers | Spring or summer |
| Trees | Fall or spring |

Of course, the specific planting time for each crop will vary depending on the variety of the crop and the specific location in Kansas where you are planting it. Be sure to do your research to determine the best planting time for each crop in your area.

Zone USDA Hardiness Zone Planting Dates
Zone 6a -10 to -5 degrees Fahrenheit Early April to late May
Zone 6b -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit Mid-April to early June
Zone 7a 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit Late April to early July
Zone 7b 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit Early May to mid-July
Zone 8a 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit Mid-May to late July
Zone 8b 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit Late May to early August
Zone 9a 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit Early June to mid-August
Zone 9b 25 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit Mid-June to late August
Zone 10a 30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit Late June to early September
Zone 10b 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit Early July to mid-September

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plant Hardiness Zone Map is a tool that helps gardeners determine which plants will thrive in their area. The map is based on average annual minimum temperatures, and it divides the country into 13 hardiness zones, from Zone 1 in the Arctic to Zone 13 in the subtropics.

Kansas is located in Zones 5b and 6a, which means that the average annual minimum temperature in the state ranges from -15F to 0F. This means that Kansas gardeners can grow a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, flowers, and vegetables. However, it is important to choose plants that are specifically adapted to the state’s climate.

Kansas’s Climate and Growing Conditions

Kansas has a continental climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The state’s average annual temperature is 55F, and the average annual precipitation is 36 inches. The growing season in Kansas typically lasts from April to October.

The state’s climate can vary significantly from one region to another. The eastern part of Kansas is more humid than the western part, and the northern part of the state is cooler than the southern part. The climate also varies depending on elevation. The higher elevations in the state are cooler and have more precipitation than the lower elevations.

Kansas gardeners need to take into account the state’s climate and growing conditions when choosing plants. Plants that are adapted to the state’s climate will be more likely to thrive.

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and Kansas’s climate and growing conditions can help gardeners determine which plants will thrive in the state. By choosing plants that are adapted to the state’s climate, gardeners can increase their chances of success.

Which Plants are Suitable for Kansas?

Kansas is a state with a wide range of climates, from the humid, subtropical climate of the southeast to the dry, continental climate of the northwest. This means that there are a variety of plants that can grow well in Kansas, depending on the specific climate of your area.

Here are some general tips for choosing plants for Kansas:

  • Choose plants that are hardy to the USDA Hardiness Zone for your area. The USDA Hardiness Zone is a map that shows the average minimum winter temperatures for each area of the United States. You can find your zone by entering your zip code on the USDA website.
  • Choose plants that are adapted to the amount of rainfall in your area. Kansas receives an average of 20-30 inches of rain per year, but there is a lot of variation from one area to another. Some areas receive more rain than others, and some areas experience droughts.
  • Choose plants that are adapted to the amount of sunlight in your area. Kansas has a wide range of climates, from the humid, subtropical climate of the southeast to the dry, continental climate of the northwest. This means that there are areas of Kansas that receive full sun all day long, while other areas receive only partial sun.

Here are some specific plants that are suitable for Kansas:

  • Perennials:
  • Asters
  • Black-eyed Susans
  • Coneflowers
  • Daylilies
  • Echinacea
  • Gaillardias
  • Hostas
  • Irises
  • Peonies
  • Rudbeckias
  • Salvias
  • Verbenas
  • Annuals:
  • Begonias
  • Calendulas
  • Cosmos
  • Marigolds
  • Petunias
  • Snapdragons
  • Zinnias
  • Vegetables:
  • Beans
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Corn
  • Cucumbers
  • Eggplants
  • Lettuce
  • Melons
  • Peppers
  • Potatoes
  • Tomatoes

How to Choose the Right Plants for Your Zone

The best way to choose the right plants for your zone is to do some research. Talk to your local garden center or nursery, or read up on the plants that are native to your area. You can also find a lot of helpful information online.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing plants for your zone:

  • The USDA Hardiness Zone is a good starting point, but it’s not the only factor to consider.
  • The amount of rainfall in your area is also important.
  • The amount of sunlight in your area is also important.
  • The soil type in your area is also important.
  • The climate in your area is also important.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices and choose the right plants for your zone.

Here are some tips for choosing plants for your zone:

  • Choose plants that are hardy to the USDA Hardiness Zone for your area.
  • Choose plants that are adapted to the amount of rainfall in your area.
  • Choose plants that are adapted to the amount of sunlight in your area.
  • Choose plants that are adapted to the soil type in your area.
  • Choose plants that are adapted to the climate in your area.

By following these tips, you can choose the right plants for your zone and enjoy a beautiful garden for years to come.

What Zone Is Kansas In For Planting?

Kansas is located in USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 7a. This means that the average annual minimum temperature ranges from -15 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. The best time to plant in Kansas depends on the specific zone, but generally speaking, spring is the best time to plant most crops.

What does the USDA Hardiness Zone map mean?

The USDA Hardiness Zone map is a tool that helps gardeners determine which plants are suitable for their climate. The map is divided into 13 zones, each with a corresponding average annual minimum temperature. Plants that are hardy in a particular zone can be safely grown outdoors in that zone without protection from the cold.

What plants can I grow in Kansas?

The type of plants that you can grow in Kansas depends on your specific zone. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Zone 5b: hardy plants that can withstand temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit, such as hardy annuals, perennials, and shrubs
  • Zone 6a: hardy plants that can withstand temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit, such as most trees, shrubs, and perennials
  • Zone 6b: hardy plants that can withstand temperatures as low as -5 degrees Fahrenheit, such as most trees, shrubs, and perennials
  • Zone 7a: hardy plants that can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit, such as most trees, shrubs, and perennials

How do I know what zone I’m in?

The easiest way to find out what zone you’re in is to look up your zip code on the USDA Hardiness Zone map. You can also find your zone by using a planting zone calculator.

When is the best time to plant in Kansas?

The best time to plant in Kansas depends on the specific zone, but generally speaking, spring is the best time to plant most crops. This is because the soil is warm enough for seeds to germinate and the weather is mild enough for plants to grow without being damaged by frost.

What are some tips for planting in Kansas?

Here are some tips for planting in Kansas:

  • Choose plants that are hardy in your zone.
  • Plant in the spring when the soil is warm enough for seeds to germinate.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
  • Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and protect the roots from the cold.
  • Watch for pests and diseases and treat them as needed.

Where can I find more information about planting in Kansas?

Here are some resources where you can find more information about planting in Kansas:

  • The Kansas State University Extension Service: https://extension.ksu.edu/
  • The University of Kansas’ Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment: https://cfae.ku.edu/
  • The Kansas Department of Agriculture: https://agriculture.ks.gov/

    null

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.