The Oregon Coast sits in Zone 9 of the hardiness scale so the studio set out to interview BettyBot about growing succulents in Zone 9--as well as in Oregon Coast microclimates. Below are the results.
Christi Studio: Good day! Could you please list the towns on the Oregon Coast that are in hardiness zone 9?
BettyBot: Here is a list of some towns on the Oregon Coast that are in hardiness zone 9:
Florence
Coos Bay
Gold Beach
North Bend
Lincoln City
Newport
Waldport
Yachats
Depoe Bay
Manzanita
Brookings
Note: Hardiness zones are regions defined by the USDA based on the average low temperature, and are used to help determine which plants will grow best in a given area. It's important to note that microclimates and other factors can affect local plant growth, so this list should be used as a general guide.
Christi Studio: Which microclimate hardiness zones are common on the Oregon Coast?
BettyBot: The Oregon Coast generally experiences a cool maritime climate with moderate to high humidity. This microclimate, along with the proximity to the Pacific Ocean, can create a variety of microclimates along the coast with varying hardiness zones.
Common microclimate hardiness zones along the Oregon Coast include:
Zone 8b: This zone encompasses areas with average low temperatures ranging from 15°F to 20°F.
Zone 9a: This zone encompasses areas with average low temperatures ranging from 20°F to 25°F.
Zone 9b: This zone encompasses areas with average low temperatures ranging from 25°F to 30°F.
It's important to note that hardiness zones are just a rough guide and other factors such as wind, exposure, and topography can influence the growing conditions for plants in a specific location.
Christi Studio: Thank you. Which zone 9 succulents thrive in the windy and shady areas of the Oregon Coast?
BettyBot: Succulents that are well-suited for windy and shady conditions in hardiness zone 9 on the Oregon Coast include:
Sedum species (Stonecrop) - Many sedum species are hardy and tolerant of wind and shade.
Sempervivum species (Hen and Chicks) - These succulents are also hardy and tolerant of wind and shade.
Echeveria species - Some species of Echeveria can also handle wind and shade, but they prefer brighter conditions.
Aloe species - Some species of Aloe are tough and can handle wind and shade, but they need good drainage to thrive.
Crassula species (Jade Plant) - Some species of Crassula are able to handle wind and shade, but they need to be protected from frost.
It's important to note that succulents can have different requirements for water, light, and temperature, so it's best to research specific species and their care requirements before planting them in a windy and shady area.
Christi Studio: Perfect. Which zone 9 succulents can thrive in Oregon Coast wetland soil?
BettyBot: Succulents that are well-suited for growing in wetland soil in hardiness zone 9 on the Oregon Coast include:
Crassula ovata (Jade Plant) - This succulent can handle moist soil, but requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Sedum species (Stonecrop) - Some sedum species can handle moist soil and can be used in rain gardens or as a ground cover in wetland areas.
Sempervivum species (Hen and Chicks) - These succulents are also able to handle moist soil and can be used in rock gardens or as a ground cover in wetland areas.
Echeveria species - Some species of Echeveria can handle moist soil but they prefer well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Aloe species - Some species of Aloe are able to handle moist soil, but they need good drainage to prevent root rot.
It's important to note that succulents can have different requirements for water, light, and temperature, so it's best to research specific species and their care requirements before planting them in a wetland area.
Christi Studio: What is the average temperature on the southern, middle, and northern regions of the Oregon Coast?
BettyBot: The temperature on the Oregon Coast can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year. Here are average temperatures for the southern, middle, and northern regions of the Oregon Coast:
Southern Oregon Coast (Coos Bay, North Bend):
Summer (July): Average high temperature around 60-65°F (15-18°C)
Winter (January): Average low temperature around 40-45°F (4-7°C)
Middle Oregon Coast (Newport, Lincoln City):
Summer (July): Average high temperature around 60-65°F (15-18°C)
Winter (January): Average low temperature around 40-45°F (4-7°C)
Northern Oregon Coast (Seaside, Astoria):
Summer (July): Average high temperature around 55-60°F (13-15°C)
Winter (January): Average low temperature around 35-40°F (2-4°C)
It's important to note that temperatures can fluctuate greatly along the coast, and can be influenced by factors such as wind, humidity, and proximity to the ocean. The above values are just general averages, and actual temperatures can vary greatly from year to year and even within a given year.
Christi Studio: What is the average humidity level on the southern, central, and northern regions of the Oregon Coast?
BettyBot: The average humidity levels on the Oregon Coast can vary greatly depending on the region and time of year. However, the entire coast experiences a cool, moist, and often cloudy maritime climate, with relatively high humidity levels throughout the year. Here are some general estimates of average humidity levels for the southern, central, and northern regions of the Oregon Coast:
Southern Oregon Coast (Coos Bay, North Bend):
Summer (July): Average humidity around 70-75%
Winter (January): Average humidity around 80-85%
Middle Oregon Coast (Newport, Lincoln City):
Summer (July): Average humidity around 70-75%
Winter (January): Average humidity around 80-85%
Northern Oregon Coast (Seaside, Astoria):
Summer (July): Average humidity around 70-75%
Winter (January): Average humidity around 80-85%
It's important to note that humidity levels can fluctuate greatly along the coast, and can be influenced by factors such as wind, temperature, and proximity to the ocean. The above values are just general averages, and actual humidity levels can vary greatly from year to year and even within a given year.
Christi Studio: Okay. Would you please share the indoor and outdoor succulents that thrive in 70% humidity?
BettyBot: Succulents can have varying tolerance for humidity levels, but some succulents that generally thrive in environments with 70% humidity include:
Indoor succulents:
Haworthia species
Gasteria species
Sansevieria species (Snake Plant)
Crassula ovata (Jade Plant)
Aloe vera
Outdoor succulents:
Sedum species (Stonecrop)
Sempervivum species (Hen and Chicks)
Echeveria species
Agave species
Aeonium species
It's important to note that succulents can have different requirements for light, temperature, and soil, so it's best to research specific species and their care requirements before planting them in an environment with 70% humidity.
Christi Studio: What can happen to succulents exposed to too much rain or humidity on the Oregon Coast?
BettyBot: Succulents, which are typically adapted to dry conditions, can be susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases if exposed to too much rain or humidity. The following are some of the common problems that can occur when succulents are exposed to excessive moisture:
Root rot: This occurs when the roots of the plant are exposed to water for too long, leading to decay and eventual death of the plant.
Fungal diseases: Excessive moisture can create an environment that is conducive to the growth of fungal diseases, which can weaken and kill the plant.
Leaf drop: Some succulents may drop their leaves if they are exposed to excessive moisture, as a way of reducing the amount of surface area that is vulnerable to fungal attack.
Stunted growth: Succulents that are exposed to too much moisture can experience stunted growth, as the plant's resources are diverted away from growth and towards survival.
Mold and mildew: Excessive moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew on the leaves and stems of succulents, which can weaken and kill the plant.
To avoid these problems, it's important to ensure that succulents are planted in well-draining soil and are not exposed to excessive moisture. If you live in an area with high rainfall, it may be necessary to protect your succulents with a covering or to grow them indoors.
Christi Studio: Can you list the types of coverings that can be used to protect outdoor succulents on the Oregon Coast?
BettyBot: Yes, here are some types of coverings that can be used to protect outdoor succulents on the Oregon Coast:
Shade cloth: This is a lightweight fabric that is designed to provide shade while still allowing light and air to penetrate. It can be used to protect succulents from excess rain and humidity, as well as from hot sun.
Greenhouse: A greenhouse can provide a controlled environment for succulents, allowing you to regulate light, temperature, and humidity levels to suit the needs of your plants.
Plant covers: Plant covers are small, dome-shaped structures that can be placed over individual succulents to provide protection from rain and humidity.
Raised beds: Building raised beds for your succulents can improve drainage, reducing the risk of root rot and other problems caused by excessive moisture.
Cold frames: Cold frames are low, lidded structures that can be used to extend the growing season for succulents and other plants. They can also provide protection from rain and humidity, allowing you to grow succulents even in areas with high rainfall.
It's important to choose a covering that is appropriate for your specific needs and the conditions in your area. Some coverings, such as greenhouses, can be expensive and may not be necessary if you only have a few succulents. However, they can be a good investment if you have a large collection of plants that you want to protect from the elements.
Christi Studio: How does shade cloth protect succulents from excess rain?
BettyBot: Shade cloth is designed to reduce the amount of direct sunlight that reaches the plants, providing protection from the sun and reducing the risk of sunburn and other damage to the leaves. Additionally, shade cloth can also provide some protection from excess rain by reducing the amount of rain that directly hits the plants.
By creating a more shaded environment, shade cloth can help to regulate the temperature and humidity levels around the plants, reducing the risk of root rot and other problems caused by excess moisture. In areas with high rainfall, shade cloth can be especially useful for preventing water from accumulating around the roots of the plants, which can cause rot and fungal problems.
The exact amount of protection provided by shade cloth will depend on the type and density of the cloth, as well as the specific conditions in your area. In general, shade cloth with a higher percentage of shade will provide more protection, but may also reduce the amount of light that reaches the plants. It's important to choose a shade cloth that provides the right balance of protection and light for your succulents.
Christi Studio: What's the best way to protect large outdoor succulents from an Oregon Coast rainstorm?
BettyBot: The best way to protect large outdoor succulents from an Oregon Coast rainstorm will depend on the size and type of the succulents, as well as the specific conditions in your area. Here are some strategies that can be effective:
Cover with a tarp or plastic sheeting: A tarp or plastic sheeting can be used to cover large succulents to protect them from rain. This is a simple and effective solution for protecting plants from a sudden rainstorm.
Grow under a pergola or other covered structure: A pergola or other covered structure can provide protection from rain while still allowing the plants to receive light and air. This is a good option for large outdoor succulents that are part of a larger garden or landscape design.
Use shade cloth: Shade cloth can be used to provide protection from rain while still allowing light and air to reach the plants. This is a good option for large outdoor succulents that are exposed to direct sun and rain.
Plant in raised beds: Raised beds can improve drainage, reducing the risk of root rot and other problems caused by excessive moisture. This is a good option for large outdoor succulents that are planted in areas with high rainfall.
Grow in containers: Growing succulents in containers can provide greater flexibility and control over the conditions in which the plants are grown. Containers can be moved to a sheltered location during a rainstorm to protect the plants from excessive moisture.
It's important to choose a solution that is appropriate for your specific needs and the conditions in your area. Some solutions, such as pergolas and raised beds, may require a significant investment of time and resources, but can provide long-term protection for your succulents. In general, the best way to protect large outdoor succulents from an Oregon Coast rainstorm will be to choose a solution that provides adequate protection from moisture while still allowing the plants to receive the light, air, and nutrients that they need to thrive.
Christi Studio: Do you have any other tips on how to keep indoor and outdoor succulents on the Oregon Coast healthy?
BettyBot: Yes, here are some additional tips to keep indoor and outdoor succulents on the Oregon Coast healthy:
Provide proper lighting: Succulents need bright, indirect light to thrive. Outdoor succulents can benefit from several hours of direct sun per day, while indoor succulents need bright, indirect light near a window or under artificial lights.
Water wisely: Overwatering is a common problem with succulents, which can lead to root rot. It's important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings, especially during the winter months when growth is slower. Indoor succulents may need to be watered less frequently than outdoor succulents, depending on the conditions in your home.
Provide proper drainage: Good drainage is essential for succulent health, as standing water can lead to root rot. Outdoor succulents should be planted in well-draining soil, while indoor succulents should be grown in containers with drainage holes.
Fertilize regularly: Succulents can benefit from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application.
Prune regularly: Regular pruning can help to maintain the shape and size of your succulents, and can also promote new growth. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished blooming, and dead or damaged leaves should be removed as needed.
Provide proper temperature: Succulents are generally heat-tolerant, but they can be sensitive to cold temperatures. Outdoor succulents should be protected from frost and cold winds, while indoor succulents should be kept in a room with temperatures between 55-85°F.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your indoor and outdoor succulents on the Oregon Coast healthy and thriving. It's also important to monitor the plants regularly, and to take action if you notice any signs of stress or disease. With proper care, succulents can be low-maintenance, long-lasting additions to your home or garden.