Europe
vs. Great Lakes
In general, the climate is more variable in the Great
Lakes region than in Europe. The summers are warmer, and the winters
are colder. The average January temperature in Reykjavik, Iceland,
is 31.50 F compared to 26.40 F in Cleveland! The climate in
Reykjavik is more temperate due to warm ocean currents off the coast.
Some plants which thrive in Europe may need heavy mulching,
shade or a sheltered spot to survive the extremes of temperature in the
Great Lakes (and much of the US). Some plants may be impossible to
grow in your region. Before buying a plant, find out which USDA
hardiness zones it will grow in.
Return to
Local Climate