Switzerland

Switzerland encompasses five distinct hardiness zones (5 to 9), reflecting its diverse topography and climate variations.

The country's landscape ranges from alpine peaks to lowland valleys, creating a mosaic of microclimates. 

Gardeners and agriculturists face varied conditions, from the challenging Zone 5 in high mountain areas to the more accommodating Zone 9 in the southern canton of Ticino.

In this article, you will learn:

• Characteristics of Switzerland’s Planting Regions
• Challenges of Growing in Switzerland
• The Benefits of Using a Greenhouse in Switzerland
• Why Planta Greenhouses?

Switzerland's diverse climate ranges from alpine to continental, with average minimum temperatures varying dramatically across its zones. 

The coldest Zone 5 areas in high alpine regions can experience lows of -28°C, while the mildest Zone 9 areas in Ticino may only drop to -6°C.

Familiarity with these zones is essential for successful cultivation in Switzerland. 

Understanding these climatic variations is critical to managing an orchard in challenging mountain valleys or nurturing a vineyard in sun-drenched southern regions.

Image from Plant Maps

Characteristics of Switzerland’s Planting Region

Switzerland's climate exhibits a rich tapestry of weather patterns across its varied terrain, including:

• Heavy snowfall in alpine regions, often lasting from November to April
• Föhn winds bringing warm, dry conditions to northern valleys
• Frequent thunderstorms in summer, especially in the Pre-Alps
• Persistent low clouds (stratus) in the Central Plateau during the winter months
• Intense summer heat in southern valleys like Valais
• High UV radiation at elevated altitudes year-round

The primary growing season in lowland areas of Switzerland typically spans six months, from mid-April to mid-October. During this period, temperatures are generally favorable for cultivation, and most regions have adequate rainfall.

Due to the protective effect of the Alps, the southern canton of Ticino often enjoys a Mediterranean-like climate with a longer frost-free period, extending seven months, from March to November. 

Conversely, high-altitude areas may have a drastically shortened growing season of just 2-3 months in summer, with frost possible even in July and August.

Challenges of Growing in Switzerland

Alpine Conditions and Frost Risk 

Gardening in mountainous regions involves managing extreme temperature fluctuations and late spring frosts. 

This needs selecting cold-hardy species, using frost protection methods like fleece covers, and carefully timing planting to avoid damage to tender crops.

Steep Terrain and Soil Erosion 

Switzerland's mountainous landscape means many gardens are on slopes, leading to potential soil erosion issues. 

Gardeners must implement terracing techniques, use retaining walls, and plant ground cover to stabilize soil and prevent nutrient loss.

Altitude-Related UV Intensity 

Higher elevations, particularly in places like Davos or Zermatt, experience intense UV radiation that can scorch plants. To combat the effects of increased solar exposure, you’ll need to choose UV-resistant varieties and ensure proper hydration.

The Benefits of Using a Greenhouse in Switzerland

Utilizing greenhouses in Switzerland offers remarkable advantages, particularly given its diverse climate zones, mountainous terrain, and varying altitudes. 

Greenhouses provide a controlled environment that mitigates the challenges of Switzerland's extreme weather conditions, enabling year-round cultivation across the country's varied landscape.

1. Extend your growing season

• Without a greenhouse: 

In high-altitude regions of Switzerland, the outdoor growing season can be extremely short, often lasting only 2-3 months in summer. Many crops struggle with the cold temperatures, frost risk, and intense UV radiation typical of alpine environments.

• With a greenhouse: 

Greenhouses in alpine areas of Switzerland can significantly extend the growing season, potentially allowing cultivation for 6 months, from April through October, even at elevations above 1500 meters. They provide protection from harsh mountain weather, mitigate temperature fluctuations, and create a more hospitable environment for various plants.

2. Grow a Wider Variety of Vegetables 

• Without a Greenhouse:
  Given Switzerland's varied climate zones, outdoor cultivation often requires selecting plants suited to specific regions. Here are some typical crops for outdoor growing in different parts of Switzerland:

• With a Greenhouse:
  Using a greenhouse in Switzerland allows for remarkable crop diversity across all regions, enabling cultivating plants that struggle in local outdoor conditions. Here are examples of crops you can grow in a greenhouse, regardless of your location:

Why Planta Greenhouses?

• Wind resistant up to 100 km/h (learn more about how our greenhouses hold up in high-altitude climates). 
• Withstands a snow load of up to 480kg per square meter. 
• Made with a heavy-duty galvanized steel frame. 
• Polycarbonate panels provide 100% protection against UV rays. 
• The Sungrow greenhouse is bell-shaped - allowing the wind, snow, and hail to slide off the sides. 
• Extendable (Sungrow, Sigma, and Farmer models can be extended beyond 30 metres)
• Made in Europe and exclusively imported 
• Maintenance-free