New York’s Capital District is a great place to garden. Our climate 
zone (5b) supports a wide variety of perennials and shrubs. We do not on average experience serious drought. And our growing season lasts from March through October. If you plan to garden in the Capital District, here are some things to consider:
- Learn as much as you can about the site you have chosen for your garden.
- Assess the condition and quality of the soil, its type and its pH.
- Record hours of sunlight and shade.
- Identify microclimates where temperatures may be warmer or colder than typical for site.
- Determine what to keep and what to remove of already existing plantings
- Set goals and develop a design.
- Prioritize goals for your garden.
- Set a budget and time frame.
- Research garden design models for ideas.
- Research planting techniques for shrubs and trees if they are part of your plan.
- Consider the following as you develop your plan:
- Substitute native alternatives for exotic invasives.
- Use deer resistant plants if deer are present on your site.
- Plant some fruit trees if possible or fruit bearing shrubs.
- Create a rain garden to manage water runoff.