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Climate

        Climate in your garden is determined by several different factors. All the elements of your location: altitude, rainfall, humidity, wind velocity, high and low temperatures, effect the survival of your plants.

Zone
        The USDA has defined the Hardiness Zone scale. The Zone for an area is determined by the average low temperature for that location.

Altitude

Altitude determines temperature and humidity. On average, the temperature drops 1 degree with every 250 feet above sea level.

Rainfall
        The amount of rainfall determines the growth periods of plants.

Humidity
        Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air, which is determined by rainfall, altitude and location. High humidity may make some plants susceptible to diseases, while others thrive in damp locations.

Sunlight

The amount and intensity of sunlight varies by time of day, season and location.

 

Wind
        Wind causes water evaporation and can cause plant damage if too strong. The intensity of the wind can be lessened by hardy trees, shrubs or by walls.

Microclimates
        In addition to the elements listed above, your garden may have many different microclimates. A microclimate is a unique situation caused by any number of factors. Elevation, trees, and buildings may all cause temperature variations within your garden. Since hot air rises and cold air sinks, areas that are lower in elevation will collect cold air. Homes and trees may hinder sunlight, moisture and wind from reaching areas of your garden.