Quote:
Originally Posted by jwmahloch
Last I heard is that the new maps are supposed to come out sometime in 2010 and that the Prizim Group in Oregon is contracted with the USDA to develop the new maps. The new maps are supposed to be much more detailed and will include microclimates around cities.
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I think one huge problem with making new zone maps is the fact that some plants are rated as hardy if they survive in the zone (old map) they are growing. One example of this is Trachycarpus fortunei (Windmill palm). While it is labeled as hardy to Zone 7, it is still borderline in my area and needs a microclimate to survive during normal winters. With a revised new map, I'll be pushed into the Zone 7b/8a border. Stores will begin selling Zone 8 (well, they already are) plants here which won't make it long term.