What Thrives in Brooklyn


We’re gardening in Zone 6, which means our plants need to survive freezing winters, hot and humid summers — and yes, the occasional neighborhood cat. It’s tough love out here, and only the hardiest plants thrive.

What Works for Us

Over time (and plenty of trial and error), we’ve learned that sticking with what thrived for past generations in New York is usually a safe bet. Still, we’re always experimenting with new varieties to see what takes root. Some of our current favorites include: heat-loving peppers, hardy kiwi and strawberries that taste like bubblegum.


Spring:

Tulips/ Daffodils/ Iris/ Peas/ Arugula/ Carrots/ Lettuce/ Roses/ Strawberries/ Radishes

Summer:

Marigolds/ Beans/ Sunflowers/ Garlic/ Tomatoes/ Zucchini/ Cucumber/ Beets/ Nasturtium/ Blackberries

Fall:

Aster/ Sedum/ Eggplant/ Okra/ Peppers/ Turnips/ Kale/ Brussel Sprouts/ Swiss Chard/ Mustard Greens

 

Medicinal: 

Calendula/ Yarrow/ Valerian/ Comfrey/ Marsh Mallow/ Tulsi Basil/ Lavender/ Shiso/ Echinacea/ Black Cohosh

Herbs:

Sage/ Rosemary/ Basil/ Cilantro/ Parsley/ Thyme/ Oregano/ Lovage/ Dill/ Mint/ Fennel

Natives:

Bee Balm/ Goldenrod/ Coreopsis/ Blue False Indigo/ Columbine/ Prairie Coneflower/ Virginia Clematis/ Joe Pie Weed/ Rose Mallow/ Wild Bergamot / Milkweed

 

65%

New York Native Flower Plant Species

30%

Vegetable and edibles

5%

Ground cover plants