Succulents have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These drought-tolerant plants are easy to care for and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. However, not all succulents are created equal, and the care that they require can vary depending on the climate in which they are grown. In this blog post, we will explore succulent care by zones, from the colder climates of zones 5-8 to the warmer climates of zones 9-11.
Dig in!
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Zone-Specific Care
Zones 5-8
Succulents that are hardy in zones 5-8 are adapted to cold climates, and many can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). These succulents are often native to high-elevation areas or areas with cold winters, and have developed adaptations to survive in these environments.
One common feature of succulents that are hardy in zones 5-8 is their ability to go dormant during the winter months. This means that they stop growing and conserve energy until temperatures warm up again in the spring. During this time, it’s important to reduce watering and fertilizing, as the plants are not actively growing and may be susceptible to root rot.
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Some popular succulent species for zones 5-8 include:
- Sempervivum: Commonly known as “hens and chicks,” these hardy succulents come in a variety of colors and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C).
- Sedum: There are many varieties of sedum that are hardy in zones 5-8, including stonecrop, dragon’s blood, and autumn joy. These succulents can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures and are often used in rock gardens and as ground cover.
- Jovibarba: Also known as “rollers,” these succulents are closely related to sempervivum and are often grown for their unique shape and texture. They are hardy to temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
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When growing succulents in zones 5-8, it’s important to provide them with plenty of sunlight, as they may not get as much during the winter months. It’s also important to keep an eye on soil moisture, as succulents can be susceptible to rot in cold, wet conditions. Using well-draining soil and protecting the plants from frost and freezing temperatures are also crucial for their survival.
When caring for succulents in these zones, it’s important to:
- provide them with plenty of sunlight
- keep an eye on soil moisture and water accordingly
- ensure that the soil is well-draining
- protect them from frost and freezing temperatures
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The Best Zone 7 Succulents
I’ve been talking to a lot of succulent enthusiasts lately asking about which succulents would be best in zone 7, so I thought it would be appropriate to give them their own section on this page. Keep in mind, this really only matters if you’re planning on planting your succulents in the ground as the zones define the lowest average temperature you might encounter. If you’re planting your succulents in pots and can bring them inside, don’t worry about which zone you’re in and start to plan out your winter grow light set up indoors.
Zone 7 Key Details
Here are some key details about USDA hardiness zone 7:
- Temperature range: Zone 7 has average annual minimum temperatures between 0°F and 10°F (-17.8°C and -12.2°C).
- The average coldest winter temperature is typically between 5°F to 10°F (-15°C to -12°C).
- This zone experiences occasional dips to -10°F to -5°F (-23°C to -20°C).
Some major cities located in zone 7:
- Portland, Oregon
- Baltimore, Maryland
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Francisco, California
Zone 7 has cold winters for brief periods, but not severe extended cold compared to more northern zones. This allows marginally hardy plants like some succulents to survive with protection. Knowing the typical range helps guide winter care and plant choices. Of course, these are all averages and anomalies are bound to occur so just keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Types of Succulents for Zone 7
Here are some of the best succulents to grow in USDA hardiness zone 7:
- Sedum (Stonecrop) – Hardy, low-growing sedum varieties like Autumn Joy, Dragon’s Blood, and Blue Spruce are excellent choices. They add color and texture.
- Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) – These form tight rosettes and spread by offsets. Select cold-tolerant varieties like Red Beauty or Green Wheel.
- Lavender – Technically an herb, lavender is a beautiful drought-tolerant plant for zone 7 gardens. English lavender cultivars like Munstead and Hidcote do well.
- Yucca – Stately yucca add height and drama. Adams Needle and Bright Edge yucca handle zone 7 winters.
- Ornamental grasses – Many grasses have succulent qualities like Mexican Feather Grass, Fountain Grass, and Blue Fescue.
- Hardy ice plants (Delosperma) – Brilliant daisy-like flowers bloom on cold-hardy ice plants. Try Wheeler’s, Kelaidis, or Table Mountain.
- Aeonium – These have branching rosettes of leaves. Kiwi and Sunburst aeoniums can survive zone 7 winters.
- Aloe – Some aloes like Tiger Tooth Aloe and Partridge Breast Aloe survive frosts and light freezes.
- Agave – Smaller agaves like Blue Glow and Parry’s Agave work for zone 7. Provide winter protection though.
Just be sure to plant in well-drained soil, allow establish before winter, and protect from extreme cold. With the right selection, succulents can thrive in zone 7.
Winter Protection in Zone 7
Here are some tips for providing winter protection for succulents in zone 7 if you plant them in the ground:
- Mulch well around the base of succulents before winter sets in. A 2-4 inch layer of shredded bark, leaves, straw or other organic mulch helps insulate roots and crowns.
- Cover succulents with a frost blanket, fabric row cover or plastic tunnel during periods of extreme cold. Secure covers to keep from blowing away. Remove on warmer days.
- For potted succulents, move containers close together and cover with straw, leaves, etc. Or, bring pots indoors to an unheated garage or room during deep freezes.
- Wrap or cover the crowns of vulnerable succulents with dry leaves, pine needles or fiberfill batting. Avert moisutre touching crowns.
- Add a polyethylene or plastic bubble greenhouse cover over succulents for extra warmth and wind protection. Ventilate on sunny days.
- Water deeply before a hard freeze is forecasted. Dry soil and roots are more prone to cold damage.
- Avoid excessive pruning in fall so plants have ample foliage to protect crowns and stems.
- Select cold-tolerant varieties when planting. Hybrids bred for hardiness fare better.
- Improve winter drainage if area tends to stay wet. Raised beds can help.
Paying close attention to forecasts and providing proactive protection can help even marginally hardy succulents pull through cold zone 7 winters. Choose adaptable varieties and be diligent.
Zones 9-11
Planting zones 9-11 are characterized by their warm, dry climates, making them ideal for growing a wide variety of succulents. These zones typically have mild winters and hot, dry summers, which can promote rapid growth and flowering in many succulent species.
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One of the most popular succulent varieties for zones 9-11 is Echeveria. These plants are known for their stunning rosette-shaped leaves and come in a wide range of colors and sizes. Other popular succulents for these zones include Aeonium, Agave, and Crassula. These plants are well-adapted to the hot, dry conditions in these zones and can thrive with minimal care.
When caring for succulents in zones 9-11, it’s important to provide them with plenty of sunlight. These plants typically require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, in extremely hot climates, it’s important to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent sunburn and heat stress.
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It’s also important to be mindful of soil moisture and water succulents accordingly. In general, succulents prefer well-draining soil that dries out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s important to wait until the soil is dry before watering again. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil can also help improve drainage and promote healthy root growth.
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General Succulent Care Regardless of the Zone
Light requirements
Succulents need plenty of sunlight to thrive. A south-facing window is ideal, but east or west-facing windows will also work. If you live in a zone with particularly harsh summers, it’s a good idea to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
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Watering
Succulents store water in their leaves, so they don’t need to be watered as frequently as other plants. It’s important to let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to succulents.
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Soil
Succulents prefer well-draining soil. A cactus or succulent mix is a good option, or you can make your own by mixing equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite.
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Temperature
Succulents generally prefer temperatures between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate some variation, but sudden changes in temperature can be stressful for them.
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Propagation
Succulents can be easily propagated from leaves or stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and in a few weeks, roots should begin to form.
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Bonus: Specific Temperatures for Each Zone
The specific temperatures associated with each zone can vary depending on the source and the method used to determine the zones. In general, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plant Hardiness Zone Map is used as a standard to determine the temperatures of each zone. The map is based on the average annual minimum temperature recorded over a period of 30 years.
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According to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, the average annual minimum temperatures for each zone are as follows:
- Zone 5: -20°F to -10°F
- Zone 6: -10°F to 0°F
- Zone 7: 0°F to 10°F
- Zone 8: 10°F to 20°F
- Zone 9: 20°F to 30°F
- Zone 10: 30°F to 40°F
- Zone 11: 40°F and above
It’s important to keep in mind that these are average minimum temperatures and actual temperatures can fluctuate above and below these ranges depending on factors such as elevation, wind, and proximity to bodies of water. It’s also important to note that some sources may have slightly different temperature ranges for each zone.
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Best Planting Zones
Some of the best succulent varieties to grow in planting zones 9, 10, and 11 include cacti, aloes, agaves, echeverias, and sedums. These plants are well-adapted to the hot, dry conditions in these zones and are typically easy to care for. They can be grown in the ground or in containers, making them a versatile addition to any garden or landscape.
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When planting succulents in these zones, it’s important to choose varieties that are well-suited to the specific climate and soil conditions in your area. It’s also important to provide adequate drainage and to use a soil mix that is specifically formulated for succulents. Watering should be done infrequently, but deeply, to promote root growth and prevent the risk of rot.
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In planting zones that are colder, such as zones 5, 6, 7, and 8, it’s still possible to grow succulents, but extra care must be taken to protect them during the winter months. This may involve bringing the plants indoors or covering them with protective materials, such as frost blankets or cloths. Choosing hardier varieties, such as hens and chicks (Sempervivum), stonecrop (Sedum), or ice plant (Delosperma), can also help ensure the plants’ survival in colder climates.
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Overall, succulents can be grown successfully in a wide range of planting zones, provided the proper care and attention is given to their specific needs.
What if you don’t live in zones 9, 10 or 11?
If you live in a planting zone that’s not well-suited to succulents, you can still grow these plants successfully. For example, you can grow succulents in pots and bring them indoors during the winter, or create a greenhouse or other protected environment where they can grow and thrive.
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In addition to providing the right climate, it’s also important to consider the specific growing conditions that succulents need in order to thrive. Succulents require well-draining soil that won’t cause problems with root rot. They also need plenty of sunlight to grow and produce flowers, so it’s important to choose a location with plenty of natural light.
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Succulents are also low-maintenance plants and don’t require a lot of care or attention. They typically need to be watered once or twice a week. They can tolerate long periods of drought without suffering significant damage. However, it’s important to avoid overwatering, as this can cause problems with root rot and other issues.
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Caring for succulents can vary depending on the climate in which they are grown. By understanding the specific needs of your zone, you can select the right succulents for your garden and ensure that they thrive. Whether you live in a colder zone and need to protect your succulents from frost or in a warmer zone and need to provide some shade from the sun, the key is to pay attention to the details and adjust your care accordingly.
In general, succulents need plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering. Keeping an eye on temperature and protecting them from sudden changes can also help to ensure their health. And, with proper care, succulents can be propagated easily, allowing you to expand your collection and enjoy these unique and beautiful plants for years to come.
Remember to always do research on the specific succulent you are growing and adjust your care accordingly. With the right care, succulents can be a low-maintenance and visually striking addition to any garden. Happy gardening!
Major US Cities and The Corresponding USDA Planting Zone
| Albuquerque, NM | Zone 9a-10a |
| Atlanta, GA | Zone 7a-8a |
| Austin, TX | Zone 8a-9a |
| Charlotte, NC | Zone 7a-8a |
| Chicago, IL | Zone 5b-6a |
| Cincinnati, OH | Zone 5b-6a |
| Columbia, SC | Zone 7a-8a |
| Columbus, OH | Zone 5b-6a |
| Dallas, TX | Zone 7b-8a |
| Denver, CO | Zone 5b-6a |
| Detroit, MI | Zone 5b-6a |
| Fort Worth, TX | Zone 7b-8a |
| Fresno, CA | Zone 9a-9b |
| Greensboro, NC | Zone 6b-7a |
| Hartford, CT | Zone 5b-6a |
| Honolulu, HI | Zone 9b-10a |
| Houston, TX | Zone 8b-9a |
| Indianapolis, IN | Zone 5b-6a |
| Jacksonville, FL | Zone 8b-9a |
| Kansas City, MO | Zone 5b-6a |
| Long Beach, CA | Zone 8a-9a |
| Los Angeles, CA | Zone 10a-10b |
| Louisville, KY | Zone 5b-6a |
| Memphis, TN | Zone 7b-8a |
| Milwaukee, WI | Zone 5b-6a |
| Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN | Zone 3a-4a |
| Nashville, TN | Zone 6b-7a |
| New York, NY | Zone 6a-6b |
| Oakland, CA | Zone 9a-9b |
| Oklahoma City, OK | Zone 5b-6a |
| Omaha, NE | Zone 4b-5a |
| Philadelphia, PA | Zone 6b-7a |
| Phoenix, AZ | Zone 9b-10a |
| Pittsburgh, PA | Zone 5b-6a |
| Portland, OR | Zone 8b-9a |
| Providence, RI | Zone 6b-7a |
| Salt Lake City, UT | Zone 6a-7a |
| San Antonio, TX | Zone 8a-9a |
| San Diego, CA | Zone 10a-10b |
| San Francisco, CA | Zone 9a-9b |
| San Jose, CA | Zone 9a-9b |
| Seattle, WA | Zone 8a-9a |
| Toledo, OH | Zone 5b-6a |
| Tulsa, OK | Zone 6a-7a |
| Virginia Beach, VA | Zone 7a-8a |
