A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Food Garden Forum Veggie growing in Bend, Oregon?

Hello,

I'm going to be moving to a new climate- from Portland, Oregon to Bend (area), Oregon- and I'm wondering if anyone has any experience growing there? I'm not sure this is the right area of the forum to ask either, if not, could someone direct me where I might ask about gardening in this area?

Thanks,

Tessa

This would be a good forum to ask that question. I really can't answer it though. I can barely keep track of growing in my own zone. I looked it up in my Sunset Western Garden book though. It looks like you are moving from a moderate to a much colder region. Here is what it says,
"Winter lows average in the 0-11 degree range; extremes range from -25 to-40. The growing season is 50 to 100 days. (mid June through first week of September)"
It looks you will need short season vegetables there and I would definitely start them early indoors.

Yes, that info sounds familiar! Thankfully, I have a small greenhouse and plan on a much larger one. I will have to put smaller tunnels inside my larger greenhouse or cold frames to avoid heating expenses- as Eliot Coleman does in his much colder climate. Here in Portland I can easily grow year round, although winter isn't really 'growing', but harvesting :). It will definitely take some adjustment and a greenhouse is a must. I grew up in a 4 season area, so I am really anxious to move to the area. Portland is beautiful, but I just couldn't take the constant overcast weather- I need sun :). I have the same book and info, but thanks for posting it anyway. I'm looking more to chat with someone in the area as books can't tell the whole story- is there a way to search in the members area for anyone in that part of Oregan? It's been a while since I've been on here.

Thanks again!

No, no real way of searching members by area. Just what you did throwing it out there for a possible response. Good luck.