Climate Zones

• Plants native to the warm, moist South may not do well in northern climates where cold winters and snow may kill roots. On the other hand, plants and shrubs that prefer high altitude and dry air may not do well in desert or semi-tropical climes. Climate zones are also known as hardiness zones, and researching the climate zone of your area will help you choose plants, trees and flowers that will grow best in your area. Determine common weather patterns in your area to help you select landscaping that will do well in your specific region. For example, the climate around San Francisco is often damp, foggy and cloudy. Plants that like sunny, dry heat may not do well in such conditions. Growing seasons also differ by geographical area. Growing seasons in Montana may be shorter than the growing season in Alabama.
  
  

Altitude

• Altitude may also affect the health and growth of your plants. Low and high air pressure and moisture, or lack of it, in the air affect plants, trees and shrubs differently. For example, aspen trees do very well in the cool high-mountain ranges of Colorado, but they need a lot of care in urban areas, requiring planting in specific locations, such as the north or east side of a building for optimal growth conditions.
  
  

Soil Types

• Different types of soil are found throughout the U.S., and landscaping in your area should be catered to soil types in your region for optimal health. Soil is categorized as sand, loam, clay or silt. The texture of your soil can help you determine which type you have in your yard. The density and texture of your soil may have a direct impact on absorption, drainage and water retention by plant and tree roots, which directly affect health and growth.
  
  

Soil Components

• The condition and nutrients found in your soil have a direct impact on plant growth and health. Factors such as pH factors in your soil and the concentration of phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen, sulphur and carbon also affect growth. Soil samples taken to neighborhood nurseries for testing may help determine whether your soil needs a boost. Approximately 18 major and minor chemical elements are required for optimal plant growth and life cycles.