Great photos! What zone is Rehoboth Beach, and how far from the ocean are these gardens?

{{gwi:5901}}

hi Bill,

Rehoboth Beach, DE is a solid 7b. Most of these photos are just blocks from the ocean, except for Mark's garden which is a few miles I believe, and Vince's is closer maybe less than a mile?

Keep pushing the zone!

Boca Joe

Joe,
I've been pushing my zone here (6b) for a long time. But there's a lot more that can be grown in 7b for sure. I have been growing a trunking Yucca (Y. revurvifolia) for several years and it has a somewhat tropical look. I also have a few cacti and several Camellias. I planted out a Trachy in spring of 2012, and last winter I wrapped it in bubble wrap, but that wasn't so good. It survived, but most of the leaves were toast. But it's recovered really well and has 9 leaves now looking healthy. This year, it's on its own though. I also have a "Frostproof" gardenia in it's 5th year outdoors and it bloomed great this season and grew a lot.

You mention Mark and Vince, but are you also in that area of DE?

{{gwi:5901}}

Bill,

I am in central MD about 30 miles NW of DC. I am zone 7a most years.

My father lives in Lewes, DE just outside of Rehoboth.

That gardenia is a beauty.I have that one too, Chuck Hayes gardenia is even better - huge 3" fragrant flowers! The plant and flowers look just like the tropical one. Plants here have survived 0f and below with no problem or protection.

If you do protect your trachy , try using frostcloth instead of bubble wrap, works great. Sabal minors and needle palms would have no problem where you are.

Boca Joe

Bill if you want to chat more, you can email me at bocajoe@comcast.net. Many more ideas for you.