r/zone5gardening

Hey everyone! I'm u/shez-a-green-witch, a founding moderator of r/zone5gardening.

This is our home for all things related to zone 5 outsdoor gardening! Please share a pic of your garden but don't feel the need to share exact locations. We're excited to have you join us!

What to Post

Post anything that you think the community would find interesting, helpful, or inspiring. Feel free to share your thoughts, photos, or questions about your favorite plants or what your struggling with.

Community Vibe

We're all about being friendly, constructive, and inclusive. Let's build a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing and connecting.

How to Get Started

1. Introduce yourself in the comments below.

2. Post something today! Even a simple question can spark a great conversation.

3. If you know someone who would love this community, invite them to join.

We are purchasing a 2.5 acre property in Wisconsin (zone 5b), and I'm starting to plan my garden! The house is situated in the middle of the lot, so there is about an acre of lawn in front and the remainder of the lot is behind the home. The prior owners planted several large beds or perrenials so I'll find out what all is there this summer. I also want a large (but not excessive) vegetable garden. In the front yard, I'm thinking of putting in an orchard, berries, and small vineyard. Here's the catch--I have never lived or gardened north of zone 7.

- What type of greenhouse works best for the cold and heavy snow loads? Would love this to double as a warm play zone for my toddler during cold months.

- What will I still be able to plant mid to late June of this year when we have closed on the property?

- What varieties of fruit trees grow well? Any dwarf trees?

- Same for berries and grapes.

- What top 3 things would you reccomend growing that will be easy and likely successful so that I don't get discouraged right away?

Photos of your beautiful gardens encouraged to hype me up!!

Thank you all so much!