The Ups and Downs of Global Warming

Feeling Warmth, Subtropical Plants Move North By SHAILA DEWAN
New York Times May 3, 2007

• “If global warming has any upside, it would seem to be for gardeners, who make up three-quarters of the population and spend $34 billion a year, according to the National Gardening Association. Many experts agree that climate change, which by some estimates has already nudged up large swaths of the country by one or more plant-hardiness zones, has meant a longer growing season and a more robust selection.”

(See our Previous Post on the Hardiness Zone Debate)

The Downside:
Warmer temperatures help pests as well-

• “Studies have shown that weeds and invasive species receive a greater boost from higher levels of carbon dioxide, a heat-trapping gas, than desirable plants do.”

Plants that are part of the identity of an area may not be able to adapt

• “By the end of the century, the climate will no longer be favorable for the official state tree or flower in 28 states, according to “The Gardener’s Guide to Global Warming,” a report released last month by the National Wildlife Federation.”

Another Upside:
Raising Awareness in products and practices that conserve water and energy including drought-resistant plants, xeriscaping, rain gardens, low maintenance plants, organic fertilizers, and greener equipment.

• “Some experts said global warming was affecting gardeners in another way, by raising awareness.”