Living in the Mid Atlantic area for many years I have been enjoying a tolerable climate. I do remember decades ago, waiting for a bus to work and seeing a bank temp of 2f, and not enjoying the memory again. However, the big shock was going to college in the Mid West. First winter saw temps of -24 to -26f before slacks and leggings were fashionable for women. My knees would be nearly frozen by the time I arrived at first class, and bright burning red as I left for the next one. Nice, however, to be able to store all that fattening free cafeteria food between the window and storm window in my dorm room. Thanks heavens the next winter long lower garments were the fashion.
The first summer in my own off campus room we had a week of 105 to 107 temps with nights around 90 and NO AC. My future husband had a scholarship at a Mid Atlantic school and I moved there to marry. After school the promised job did not materialize and he wanted to return to the Mid West guaranteed job. I told him our marriage would not survive Mid West weather, so it survived for 44 years near the Atlantic Ocean he loved, and his beloved boat, until Alzheimer’s got him.
Now, back to gardens. I had bought a lot of bulbs—tulip, daffodil, crocus, hyacinth. I got some planted in Zones 6 and 7, before premature winter got in the way. Can I plant them usefully in Zone 7 if our ground thaws in the next few weeks?
“Gardening in Zone 7 is a delightful journey, especially when planting bulbs that promise bursts of color come spring. Laden with moderately cold winters and warm summers, this zone is a paradise for diverse flowering bulbs. The ideal time to plant bulbs in Zone 7 is in the fall, around six to eight weeks before the first frost, typically late September through early November. This allows the bulbs to establish their roots before the ground freezes, ensuring a vibrant display when the weather warms up.”
You missed your window if opportunity for planting spring bulbs (Daffs, Tulips, Crocus) which was September - November in Zone 7.
https://evergreenseeds.com/when-to-plant-bulbs-in-zone-7/
“Determining the Right Planting Time
Planting bulbs at the right time is key to ensuring they develop strong roots before they must face the cold. In Zone 7, fall is generally the preferred season for planting most bulbs. This is typically between late October and early November, just before the ground freezes. Planting during this period allows the bulbs to establish themselves and benefit from the winter chill, which helps them bloom come spring.”
However, if you want to add some SUMMER-blooming bulbs such as Lilies or Alliums, those go in after the soil has warmed up for summer blooms in Zone 7.
“For spring/summer bulbs, soil temperature should be about 60°F (15°C) or cooler to encourage root growth without premature sprouting. For summer bulbs, planting between late March to early May works best. Keep an eye on the temperatures and be ready to plant after the last frost.”
Check with a local garden center - they’ll have bulbs available for you during the proper planting times for your Zone. :)