I'm growing Columbus in Central IL, it seems to do just fine. Our area is very heavy clay, hardiness zone 5b. Keep in mind mine are in more shade than is probably good for them. Last year I got about 2 lbs dry equivalent. There's also a bunch growing wild along one of the bike trails, not sure what the variety is though. Rumor has it some hops fell of the train on the way to the PBR factory and took off from there. You can try and mix in some compost or something to amend the soil, try calling your local extension office for tips.