Climate

No matter what type of tree you prefer, our climate often makes the choice for you. So to avoid disappointment, keep in mind the extremes of our environment in Stillwater. Choose trees that accept our regions prevailing conditions or at least attempt to select areas where conditions can be somewhat moderated.

Many gardeners automatically look at a USDA hardiness zone map to help them select a tree. That map, however, is not the whole picture. The Zone map is made up from average minimum temperatures. It does not take into account maximum temperatures or rainfall at all. For example, Stillwater is a part ofZone 6. So is most of Rhode Island! Obviously, the same trees will not thrive in both locations.

While Stillwater can have winter temperatures as low as Rhode Island, summer temperatures are another matter. The best trees for Stillwater will tolerate high temperatures, even at night, and be tolerant of both dry conditions and the occasional flooding downpour. Tolerance of strong winds, of course are a necessity.

While climate differences can be offset to so me extent by extra watering, mulching and care, trying to force a tree to thrive that is not suited for our climate is an uphill battle at best and often a losing proposition.

The Top 12 list on page 12, addresses climate tolerance of particular trees and discusses some particularly well adapted to the Stillwater climate.