"We're in 5; and more particularly, 5a," said Dave Jackson.

A growing zone is determined by how cold, on average, the temperature will get during the year.

Dave Jackson of Jackson's Greenhouse says you should get your soil PH checked now if you plan to start a garden, or do landscaping next year.

"In terms of adding organic matter, and get it incorporated in the soil. and getting your PH in the range that it needs to be, in terms of soil condition," said Jackson".

From there you can modify your growing zone number, your microclimate as Dave says, especially if you live just south of the Kansas River.

"It's a more forgiving microclimate of Topeka, for example, in that area just south of the river, with the older trees, in the lots where they get plenty of protection."

Even though it gets really hot around here, Dave says areas south of the river are good locations to grow exotic evergreens; and, if your place is cool enough you can grow species of northern flowers, like Gentlemen's Briches.

"Oh, yeah, that's another one. Right. Exactly. It gets too hot here for them to do very well, except in a very cool area," said Jackson.

Don't become numb to the idea of planting species that are not truly native to Northeast Kansas. Give it a chance. You might be surprised what growing conditions lurk in your backyard.

Zone Six plant species you can try growing here in Northeast Kansas:

Zone Four plant species you can try growing here in Northeast Kansas: