Warmer weather is hopefully just around the corner, and if you're anything like me, you're counting down the days. Winter has its beauty: the silhouettes of leafless trees, the possibility of snow, and the delicate dustings of frost it leaves behind. But there's no season quite like spring. We're not quite out of the woods yet, though, and it's important to be prepared for those final cold snaps.

That’s where The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s new 2026 Last Frost Date Map comes in. Designed as a planning tool, it shows when the risk of frost is likely to end across the US this year, using a color-coded system to indicate whether your last frost is expected earlier, around the usual time, or later than average. Unlike traditional frost date charts based purely on historical data, this map blends long-term averages with 2026 weather predictions, giving gardeners a more up-to-date picture of what to expect this season – and helping to guide decisions on when it’s safe to start planting.

After checking what the Almanac report had to say about when different parts of the US can expect their last frost date this year, I asked plant experts what this could mean for gardeners across different growing zones.

Why is Your Last Frost Date So Important?

The last frost is a pivotal moment for both plants and gardeners, marking the transition from winter into the growing season. It signals the point at which the risk of freezing temperatures begins to ease, allowing plants to move out of dormancy and into active growth.

When your last frost occurs can influence a lot, helping you predict what will grow well in the weeks ahead and when it’s safe to start planting outdoors. It also provides a useful guide for transplanting and caring for young seedlings, which are especially vulnerable to sudden drops in temperature compared to established plants.

How to Read the Map

The map is quick and easy to interpret. Just find your location and look for the color assigned to your region. Green indicates the last frost is expected earlier than usual, meaning you may be able to start planting sooner. Yellow shows conditions are likely to be near the historical average, so you can follow typical planting timelines. Blue signals a later-than-normal frost, so it’s best to hold off on early planting and protect tender crops.

While most shifts are only by a week or two, even small changes can make a big difference when it comes to sowing seeds and moving plants outdoors.

What to Do if Your Last Frost Comes Early

Many parts of the country – including Boston, much of New England, New Jersey, NYC, Philadelphia, the Carolinas, eastern Georgia, Kentucky, and parts of Indiana, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri – can expect their final frost earlier than usual this year.

This is good news for gardeners, as it effectively extends the growing season and opens the door to earlier planting. However, it’s still worth keeping an eye on the forecast, as occasional late cold snaps can’t be ruled out entirely.

With frost clearing sooner, it’s a great opportunity to get ahead on seasonal jobs. Chrissie Handley, a lawn care specialist and gardening pro at Online Turf, recommends starting with groundwork: "If the last frost is predicted to arrive earlier than expected, you should get the basic ground prep work done as soon as you can, so that your plants have a strong and stable base as they begin to grow again.

"Make sure your soil has been aerated to help improve drainage and airflow, too. This is especially important as it may have become compacted over the winter with the constant freeze-thaw cycles. Only aerate on a mild day, don’t aerate frozen soil!"

You can also begin sowing cool-season crops such as peas, lettuce, and spinach a little earlier than usual. If you do decide to get started, keep some frost protection – like row covers or blankets – on hand just in case of an unexpected dip in temperature. This Blanket Plant Cover from Amazon is popular and ideal for beds. Alternatively, these Reusable Plant Protector Bags are great for shielding individual plants from the frost.

What to Do if Your Last Frost Comes Late

If your last frost is predicted to arrive later than usual – as is the case in parts of Florida, northern Montana, Idaho, and areas of Utah, Nevada, and Washington – it’s important to hold off on planting warm-season crops. I'd feel the same anticipation, honestly, eager to get planting for the spring, but it would be so sad to see that work possibly go to waste when a flurry of frost comes in.

As Chrissie explains: “If the frost is going to stick around for a bit longer, you should shift your gardening plans back slightly to account for the temperature. Classic spring gardening tasks like fertilization, mowing your lawn, starting seeds, and overseeding all rely heavily on the climate being optimal and consistent. So hold on a bit longer before diving in!"

In the meantime, focus on protecting any early plantings from unexpected cold snaps. Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal, recommends covering vulnerable plants with frost cloths or blankets, or moving potted plants indoors when temperatures drop. Keeping protective materials like row covers or cloches on hand can help prevent damage while frost risk remains.

If you’re unsure when it’s safe to plant, using a soil thermometer – like the 4-in-1 Soil Meter from Amazon – can help you track when the soil is consistently warm enough. This, alongside the last frost date, is a reliable indicator that conditions are suitable for planting.

What to Do if Your Last Frost Arrives as Expected

If your last frost is predicted to arrive as usual, things are going to plan! You could begin to add compost to your plant beds ahead of sowing seeds or begin fixing areas of soil that have experienced poor drainage. But there's nothing overly preventative that needs doing, aside from keeping groundcovers on hand if you feel they're needed.

This should apply to you if you live in the Appalachians, Deep South, Upper Midwest, Lower Lakes, High Plains, or Pacific Northwest.

Almost 8 years ago I moved from one side of Washington state to the other side. For some, a move such as this wouldn’t be a big deal but in my case, I went from a temperate zone with significant rainfall year round to an area with four distinct seasons (five if you count wildfire season).

So, while spring is glorious, albeit late, and fall is lovely but far too short, summer and winter can be horrendous. Summer sneaks in all sweetness and light, and then wham! We suddenly get a stretch of hot dry weather with temps in the low 100’s (around 38 C).

All this is to explain my absolute shock when I began gardening in my new home. I went from zone 9a on the USDA plant hardiness zone map to somewhere in the area of zone 6b to 7a, depending on microclimate and elevation. Significant USDA hardiness zone changes. So what is a gardener to do with all this change? Follow along as I share my journey of coming to grips with growing in a new USDA hardiness zone.

Starting a Garden After Moving

I was so excited to begin gardening, I’d even brought some plants from the “other side” with me. I’d brought some container grown trees that had been gracing our deck on the east side of the state. They were just some Acer or maple varieties; pretty resilient. So I popped 2 of them on our partially covered patio and one on an uncovered area of the patio.

I expected them to thrive as they did on the other side of the state. No. They made it through the first year which was a mild winter but the second year, ugh. Half of the potted Japanese maple died and one of the other maples kicked the bucket entirely.

I had taken steps to protect them by moving them up against the house, mulching them and wrapping the dormant trees in burlap, but alas, my efforts couldn't stand up to Old Man Winter. I now know that I need to plant my new Bloodgood Japanese maple from Fast Growing Trees before winter arrives.

More Surprises Related to Planting Zone Changes

This wasn’t my only garden related debacle. I also realized that while I loved growing dahlias, on the west side they can't be left in the ground through the winter. In this new growing zone change, the tubers needed to be lifted and carefully stored until the spring. And, let me tell you, learning how to store them properly was quite a lesson. We tried various methods with no success.

I’ve now given up and switched to canna lilies, which seem incredibly resilient. I simply toss the bulbs in a box of sphagnum moss and store them in a cool closet in the basement. Okay, it's a wee bit more complicated than that, but not by much.

All this is to say that planting zone changes are no small matter. Of course, I was familiar with the USDA planting zone map, but I guess I had paid little attention since so many things grew and thrived in my previous area of the Pacific Northwest. In my defense, numbers are not my forte.

Growing Zone Changes: Tips for Gardeners

So, after some gardening failures due to this large shift in planting zones, I had to rethink my garden plans. Along the way, I’ve learned a few things that I’d like to pass along to anyone else facing a shift in growing zones.

• Look up your new USDA zone. This seems obvious, but it’s crucial, so do it. Those numbers are like gold when it comes time to buy or sow plants.
• Do some research. It always helps to be prepared before you go into a new situation and moving to a new gardening zone qualifies. Read up on what perennials, veggies, fruiting trees, and ornamentals will grow in your new zone.
• Don’t forget to consider microclimates. This is such a real thing. I live in the same city as my mother but she lives atop a huge hill and I live in a valley. On the same day our outdoor temperatures can be quite different or one of us may get snow but not the other. This will impact your growing zone, often, as in my case, by an entire point or more.
• Talk to people. Chat with your new neighbors, local Extension office, Master Gardeners Association and nursery personnel. Pump them for info about what not only grows in your new area, but what will thrive. Trust their information more than the internet. After all, they live here.
• Choose appropriate plants. This may seem obvious and it does go hand in hand with researching your new planting zone. Don’t select a wish list plant that is not suited to your new zone hoping that it will make it. You will be disappointed.
• Despite what I said a second ago, experiment. You may have grown a plant at your old USDA zone that is no longer suitable for your current zone, but maybe there’s an alternative. Or something similar. Or, maybe you just want to say “to heck with it” and attempt to grow a plant that will survive with just a little extra TLC and some proactive protections.
• Get creative. If you are of the adventurous ilk, and want to try growing plants that are a shade or two outside of your growing zone, take steps to protect them. This means mulch heavily, plant on a slope or against a wall and wrap it up. You can wrap your plants in burlap, plastic or even bubble wrap to insulate them over winter.

Planning a garden after a move can take a little bit of work, but it is worth it to make sure your new property flourishes. I hope these tips will help you avoid some of the mistakes I made. Happy gardening!

The Earth's climate is changing. This is not news to most gardeners. We see it in our backyards, our gardens and if we've been gardening a while, with the USDA hardiness zones update in 2012. When the map was redrawn, almost half of the continental US saw a change in their hardiness zone. Many believe this was due to climate change.

What is the USDA Hardiness Zone Map

First published in 1960 by the US Department of Agriculture, the hardiness zone map depicts the average annual minimum temperature for an area. The first map was divided into 10 zones with each zone representing a 10 degree (Fahrenheit) temperature range. For instance, the average annual minimum temperature for zone one is -50 to -60 degrees F. or -51.1 to -45.6 degrees C.

Since that time USDA Hardiness Zone map changes have included the addition of zones 11-13. Each numbered zone has also been divided into “a” and “b” zones. Data from more weather stations has been collected and more sophisticated data analysis methods have been employed. This has led to opposite shifts in hardiness zones over time.

Plant Hardiness Zones: Climate Change

Since its conception in 1960, the USDA Hardiness map has been updated twice. Once in 1990 and again in 2012. Some of the shifts seen with these updates was due to the way data was collected, tracked and analyzed. Yet, other changes can be attributed to warmer winter low temperatures.

More importantly, recent data predicts future shifts in hardiness zones as average annual low temperatures continue to rise. However, it's not likely that gardeners will see an updated hardiness zone map soon.

Adjusting to Changing Hardiness Zones

Some scientific models show the USDA Hardiness zones marching northward at a velocity of 13.3 miles per decade. Using these values, researchers at the University of Idaho calculated that by 2070 cash crops like almonds, kiwi and oranges would see an expanded range of areas where these plants could be grown in the continental US.

While this doesn't mean gardeners in Alaska will soon be growing oranges, it does mean that perennial plants which have had sketchy winter hardiness in an area will be more likely to survive in that area in the future. However, experts warn there is more to winter hardiness than a zone defined by the average of annual minimum low temperatures.

For instance, if you live in Zone 6, the USDA hardiness map lists your average annual low temperature between 0 and -10 degrees F. (-23.3 to -17.8 C.) This doesn't mean that every winter will have a cold snap where temperatures fall into this range, nor does it guarantee the temperature will never dip below -10 degrees F.

It's during these extreme winter weather events that perennial plants are most likely to suffer cold damage. Additionally, an early cold snap in the fall or a late one in the spring can leave plants unprepared to handle the cold. According to experts, climate change predictions indicate an increase in these types of extreme weather events.

Bottom line, until an updated map is released with new hardiness zones, the recommendation is to continue using the current map to purchase plants which are winter compatible in your area. And while it's important for gardeners to realize hardiness zones are shifting, experts agree these maps are just one tool in the gardener's arsenal. Understanding the microclimates of your property and planting the right plant in the right place have an equal, if not bigger bearing, on success.

Weather temperatures are among the most important factors in determining whether a plant thrives or dies in a particular setting. Almost all gardeners have the habit of checking a plant’s cold hardiness zone range before installing it in the backyard, but what about its heat tolerance? There is now a heat zone map that can help you make sure your new plant will survive summers in your area too.

What do heat zones mean? Read on for an explanation, including tips, on how to use heat zones when selecting plants.

Heat Zone Map Info

For decades gardeners have used cold hardiness zone maps to figure out whether a particular plant can survive winter weather in their backyard. The USDA put together the map dividing the country into twelve cold hardiness zones based on the coldest recorded winter temperatures in a region.

Zone 1 has the coldest average winter temperatures, while zone 12 has the least cold average winter temperatures. However, USDA hardiness zones do not take summer heat into account. That means that while a particular plant’s hardiness range may tell you that it will survive your region’s winter temperatures, it does not address its heat tolerance. That’s why the heat zones were developed.

What Do Heat Zones Mean?

Heat zones are the high-temperature equivalent of cold hardiness zones. The American Horticultural Society (AHS) developed a "Plant Heat Zone Map" that also divides the country into twelve numbered zones.

So, what are heat zones? The map’s twelve zones are based on the average number of “heat days” per year - days that temperatures rise above 86 F. (30 C.). The area with the least heat days (less than one) is in zone 1, while those with the most (more than 210) heat days are in zone 12.

How to Use Heat Zones

When selecting an outdoor plant, gardeners check to see if it grows in their hardiness zone. To facilitate this, plants are often sold with information about the range of hardiness zones they can survive. For example, a tropical plant might be described as thriving in USDA plant hardiness zones 10-12.

If you are wondering how to use heat zones, look for heat zone information on the plant label or ask at the garden store. Many nurseries are assigning plants heat zones as well as hardiness zones. Remember that the first number in the heat range represents the hottest area the plant can tolerate, while the second number is the lowest heat it can tolerate.

If both types of growing zone information are listed, the first range of numbers is usually hardiness zones while the second will be heat zones. You’ll need to know where your area falls on both the hardiness and heat zone maps to make this work for you. Select plants that can tolerate your winter cold as well as your summer heat.

If you are new to gardening, you may be confused by some of the terminology associated with plants. For instance, a USDA zone explanation may be necessary. This is a useful system for determining what plants will survive and grow in certain areas of North America. When you understand how these hardiness zones work, you will be able to better plan your garden.

What Do Hardiness Zones Mean?

The USDA plant hardiness map is created and updated every few years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It divides North America into eleven zones by minimum average annual temperatures. The lower the number is, the lower the temperatures in that zone.

Each zone represents ten degrees of temperature difference. Each zone is also divided into “a” and “b” segments. These represent five degrees of temperature difference. For example, zone 4 represents minimum temperatures between -30 to -20 degrees F. (-34 to -29 C.). The a and b subdivisions represent -30 to -25 degrees F. (-34 to -32 C.) and -25 to -20 degrees F. (-32 to -29 C.).

Hardiness refers to how well a plant will survive cold temperatures. Where the USDA zones fall short; however, is that they don’t account for other factors. These include freeze dates, freeze-thaw cycles, the effects of snow cover, precipitation, and elevation.

How to Use Hardiness Zone Information

Understanding hardiness zones means you can pick plants for your garden that will be most likely to survive your local winters. The zones are not important for annuals since these are plants you would only expect to survive the summer months, or one season. For perennials, trees, and shrubs though, be sure to check the USDA zones before you put them in your garden.

The limitations of the USDA zones are most felt in the western U.S. If you live in this area, you may want to use the Sunset climate zones. This system uses more than just the minimum temperatures to determine which plants grow best where. They also use the length of the growing season, summer temperatures, wind, humidity, and rainfall.

No zoning system is perfect and even within your own garden you may have important microclimates that impact how plants grow. Use the USDA or Sunset zones as a guide and always check them to give you the best chance of success in your garden.

Most gardeners are familiar with temperature-based hardiness zones. These are set out in the United States Department of Agriculture plant hardiness map that divides the country into zones based on the average lowest winter temperatures. But cold temperatures are not the only factor relevant to how well plants grow.

You will also want to learn about different climate types and climate zones. What are climate zones? Read on for information about gardening with climate zones.

What are Climate Zones?

Plant hardiness zone maps were developed to help gardeners figure out in advance which plants could survive outdoors in their region. Many plants sold in nurseries are labeled with a hardiness range so that gardeners can find appropriately hardy selections for their garden.

While hardiness to cold weather is one factor that impacts a plant’s health in your garden, it isn’t the only factor. You also have to consider summer temperatures, length of growing seasons, rainfall, and humidity.

Climate zones have been developed to include all these factors. Those gardening with climate zones take these gardening climates into account when selecting plants for their backyard. Plants usually do best in regions with climates similar to their native areas.

Understanding Climate Zones

Before you begin gardening with climate zones, you need to understand different climate types. Your climate zone will also impact the plants you can grow. There are five main types of climates, with climate zones ranging from tropical to polar.

• Tropical climates – These are hot and humid, with high average temperatures and lots of precipitation.
• Dry climate zones – These zones are hot but dry, with very low precipitation.
• Temperate zones – Temperate zones have warm, wet summers with rainy, mild winters.
• Continental zones – Continental zones have summers that are warm or cool and cold winters with snowstorms.
• Polar zones – These climate zones are extremely cold in winter and quite cool in summer.

Once you start understanding climate zones, you can use them for gardening. Gardening with climate zones in mind simply means that gardeners only introduce plants that match their specific gardening climates.

First, you want to identify your own climate and climate zone. Several different climate zone maps are available to help you with this.

Gardeners in the western United States, for example, can use the 24-zone climate system created by Sunset Magazine. The Sunset zone maps take into account both average winter lows and average summer highs. They also factor in growing seasons, humidity, and rainfall patterns.

The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension put together a similar plant climate zone system. The zone map is similar to the Sunset map, but it uses different numbers. Your local extension office should be able to help you locate suitable climate zone maps for your area.

If you’re a gardener in the United Kingdom, how do you interpret gardening information that relies on USDA plant hardiness zones? How do you compare UK hardiness zones with USDA zones? What about RHS zones and hardiness zones in Britain? Sorting it out can be a challenge but understanding zone information is important because it helps you select plants that have the best chance of surviving in your particular climate. The following information should help.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zones

USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) plant hardiness zones, based on minimum ten year average temperatures, were created in the 1960's and are used by gardeners around the globe. 

The purpose of the designation is to identify how well plants tolerate the coldest temperatures in each zone. USDA zones begin at zone 1 for plants that tolerate severe, subfreezing temperatures to tropical plants that thrive in zone 13.

RHS Zones: USDA Zones in Great Britain

RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) hardiness zones begin at H7 (temperatures similar to USDA zone 5) and are used to designate very hardy plants that tolerate subfreezing temperatures. On the opposite end of the temperature spectrum is zone H1a (similar to USDA zone 13), which includes tropical plants that must be grown indoors or in a heated greenhouse year-round.

Does Britain Use USDA Hardiness Zones?

While it’s important to understand RHS hardiness zones, much of the available information relies on USDA zone guidelines. To get the most benefit from the wealth of information on the Internet, it’s a tremendous help to arm yourself with information about USDA zones in Great Britain. Most of the United Kingdom is located in USDA zone 9, although climates as chilly as zone 8 or as mild as zone 10 aren’t uncommon. 

As a general rule, the UK is marked primarily by cool (but not frigid) winters and warm (but not scorching) summers. The UK enjoys a fairly long frost-free season that extends from early spring to late autumn. Keep in mind that UK zones and USDA zones are intended to serve as guidelines only. Local factors and microclimates should always be taken into consideration.

If you are a gardener in any other part of the world, how do you translate USDA hardiness zones into your planting zone? There are numerous websites dedicated to indicating hardiness zones outside U.S. borders. Each country has a similar designation for the specific conditions within its borders. Let's go over some of the most commonly used plant hardiness zones.

The United States, Canada, and the U.K. provide easy to read hardiness zone maps. These indicate where a plant is capable of growing by providing the lowest minimum temperature the specimen can withstand. These are defined by climactic conditions and divided into geographic locations. 

World hardiness zones differ dependent upon the climate, so a South African gardener, for instance, will need the plant hardiness zones for South Africa and, more specifically, for their part of the country.

USDA Hardiness Zones

You may be familiar with United States Department of Agriculture system of zoning. This is visually depicted on a map that gives the annual minimum temperatures of each region. It is divided into 11 zones that correspond to each state and sub-climate within.

Most plants are marked with a hardiness zone number. This will identify the region of the U.S. where the plant can thrive. The actual number identifies different regions based upon their lowest average temperatures and each is divided into 10 degree Fahrenheit levels.

The USDA map is also color coded to make it even easier to see where your area falls. Identifying hardiness zones outside the U.S. may require some internet surfing or you can convert U.S. zones to your region.

World Hardiness Zones

Most of the larger countries and regions of the world have their own version of a hardiness map. Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Canada, China, Japan, Europe, Russia, South America, and many more have a similar system, although many have naturally warmer zones and the zones may get higher than the USDA system-- where 11 is the highest.

Places such as South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia are examples of regions where the hardiness zones will go off the USDA chart. Britain and Ireland are also countries where the winters are milder than many of the northern U.S. states. Therefore, their hardiness zone map will range from 7 to 10. Northern Europe has colder winters and falls between 2 and 7… and so on and so on.

Hardiness Zone Converter

To figure out what corresponds to the USDA equivalent zone, simply take the average lowest temperature of the region and add ten degrees for each higher zone. The U.S. zone 11 has an average lowest temperature of 40 degrees F. (4 C.). For zones with higher low temps, such as a zone 13, the average lowest temperature would be 60 degrees F. (15 C.).

Of course, if you live in a region that uses the metric system, you will need to convert into that format. Every 10 degrees Fahrenheit is 12.2 degrees Celsius. This hardiness zone converter makes it easy for any gardener in any country to figure out their hardiness zone, provided they know the lowest average temperature of the region.

Hardiness zones are important to protect sensitive plants and get the best growth and health out of your favorite flora.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

The USDA Plant Hardiness Map for Wisconsin

Gardeners in Wisconsin are used to the chilly winters and, as indicated by the Wisconsin USDA planting map above, the temperatures can dip as low as -35 degrees F. (-37 C.). To find your zone on the new 2023 USDA plant hardiness map, click on the map to enlarge it. If you cannot find your areas easily, you can go to the USDA home page where you will find a box to input your zip code. This will give you your planting zone.

The USDA plant hardiness zone is particularly useful when you are planting trees, shrubs, or perennials. These plants need to be hardy enough to survive the winter temperatures in your area. Knowing your zone will help you make the best decisions when it comes time to select plants.

The new Wisconsin plant map takes into consideration weather data collected over a thirty-year period and replaces the older 2012 map that was not nearly as accurate. In addition to average winter low temperatures, the new map also considers proximity to a large body of water, urban heat, and elevation. 

Most greenhouses and retail nurseries in your area will carry plants that are hardy in your zone; however, if the information is not provided, be sure to ask. 

While other factors may influence whether a plant will thrive in your landscape, you should always start with plants that are appropriate for your Wisconsin zone.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

About the West Virginia Planting Map

The West Virginia USDA plant hardiness map, as featured above, is based on new data collected by the USDA over a thirty-year period. Weather stations throughout the country gathered essential data for the map, which was released at the end of 2023.

The new 2023 map made some zone adjustments for the winter warming trend and took into consideration an area's proximity to a large body of water, elevation, and the urban heat factor. West Virginia zones include 5b at the highest elevation in the east to 7a near the southern part of the state. The majority of the state falls in zones 6a and 6b with extreme average winter low temperatures down to -10 degrees F. (-12 C.). New and experienced gardeners benefit greatly from the zone information provided by the map.

To find your zone, you can enlarge the map above by clicking on it or visit the USDA site and input your zip code to find your zone. When you use the plant hardiness information as a guide for selecting plants, you will find that the majority, if not all, plant distributors provide this information on their plant tags. Although the map is not a 100% guarantee that a plant will survive, it is a good place to start. Be sure to follow planting and care directions carefully, and remember, you can always bring plants indoors for the winter if they are not suited for your area.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

Knowing Your Virginia Zone - Understanding the USDA Planting Map

If you live in Virginia, you will be in one of the four Virginia USDA plant hardiness zones that range from 5b at the northern tip to 8a and 8b on the eastern shore. These zones should serve as a guideline when selecting flowers, shrubs or trees for your garden.

Much of Virginia experiences a relatively mild winter with extreme low temperatures above zero; however, those that live in the northwest could see chilly winter lows down as far as -15 F. The Virginia planting map above can be enlarged by clicking on it so that you can see which zone covers your area. Once you have determined your zone, you can use this information when you start or add to your garden and landscape.

The USDA unveiled a new plant hardiness map at the end of 2023 that replaces the older version from 2012. The map is much more detailed than previous versions and now takes into consideration such factors as elevation, urban heat and proximity to a large body of water. 

Although there are still many other factors that affect the success rates of plants such as soil type, winter sun and humidity, amongst others, the Virginia plant map should serve as a guide when landscaping or gardening.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

Vermont Gardens and the USDA Plant Map

The USDA divides the country into what is called plant hardiness zones. These zones that graduate in 10-degree increments represent the culmination of weather data collected over a thirty-year period. The new map, released at the end of 2023, has changed some zones and taken into consideration factors such as elevation, urban heat, and proximity of an area to a large body of water.

The Vermont planting map, as pictured above, is based on the new data and is a great resource for anyone who loves to garden. Knowing which zone you are in helps tremendously when deciding between plant species that will survive winter low temperatures in your area. You can see an enlarged version of the map by clicking on it.

Vermont zones include a small pocket of 4a with the central section of the state being zones 4b and 5a with the southern section within zone 5b. There are a few pockets of 6a in the southern interior of the state. Much of Vermont has a very short growing season and some cold average extreme winter lows that dip to -30 degrees F. (-34 C.). While many plants, shrubs, and trees will survive and are adapted to this type of extreme weather, it is important to choose only those that are listed for your zone.

Reputable nurseries in your area will only carry plants that are clearly marked with the USDA planting zones that are appropriate for the plant that is for sale. Although the Vermont USDA planting map is an excellent resource for gardeners, it cannot replace proper planting and care that are essential in order for plants to thrive.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

Utah USDA Plant Hardiness Map

Gardening in Utah is much easier when gardeners implement species of plants that are compatible with the plant hardiness zone in which they live. The map above is the latest version of the Utah plant map, which was released late in 2023.

Since 1960, the USDA has been gathering data and providing gardeners and plant enthusiasts all over the country with valuable information pertaining to plant hardiness. The most recent version of the map, based on thirty years of weather data, is more sophisticated than any prior version. Some of the country has seen a rise in their zones due to a winter warming trend that some people attribute to global warming.

Utah zones include a frosty 4a in the north to a balmy 9a in the southwest. Extreme winter temperatures range from -30 to 25 degrees F. (-34 to -4 C.). With this much variance in one state, gardeners do well to know which zone they live in. The map above can be enlarged by clicking it, which will help you determine your zone. 

When you purchase flowers, shrubs, and trees according to the Utah planting map, you are not guaranteed that they will survive, as there are other factors that come into play. However, it is a great place to start when searching for new plants for your garden and landscape.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

South Dakota USDA Plant Hardiness Map Information

South Dakota is divided into zones, as seen on the South Dakota planting map above, according to average winter extreme temperatures. The USDA collected data over thirty years for their new plant hardiness map that was released in 2023.

South Dakota zones include the chilly regions of 4a, 4b, 5a, and a couple small sections of 5b. With average winter low temperatures possible of -30 degrees F. (-34 C.), gardeners have to pay particular attention to what they plant. To find your location on the South Dakota planting map, you can enlarge the map above. If you need additional information or have trouble finding your zone, you can go to the USDA site and input your zip code. Once you have found your zone, you can use this information to choose shrubs, flowers, and trees that are suitable for your region.

While the information presented in the USDA zone map should serve as foundational tool, it should be considered alongside other factors that influence plant success including, but not limited to, winter sunshine, humidity, wind, and soil type. Although the average winter extreme temperatures in South Dakota can get very cold, many plants will tolerate this extreme weather. Plant these zone appropriate flowers, trees, and shrubs according to their recommended planting instructions and provide regular care for a thriving garden.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

South Carolina Gardens - Understanding the USDA South Carolina Plant Map

At the end of 2023, the USDA released a new plant hardiness map which used weather data collected from stations all over the country. This weather data noted extreme winter low temperatures, which were used to formulate the hardiness zone map, along with some other factors such as elevation, proximity to a large body of water, and urban heat.

Using the South Carolina USDA plant hardiness map as a guide is a good idea when choosing plants for this region. Click on the map above to enlarge it and locate your growing zone. If you have a difficult time finding your zone, you can go to the USDA site where you can input your zip code. The western part of the state is the coolest while the southeast enjoys a very temperate winter climate. South Carolina zones include 7b through 9b.

Gardening in South Carolina offers many opportunities for a wide variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees. However, it is always best to check the growing zone for a particular plant before installing it in your garden. Also, keep in mind that other factors, such as correct planting and care, will determine the success of your plants.

Plant Outside Your Zone with Season Extenders

• If you're growing in cooler zones, these Agfabric floating plant covers from Amazon are an affordable way to trap heat and protect your plants against frost and wind.
• The Ohuhu Portable Mini Greenhouse from Amazon is great for starting seedlings indoors or protecting plants outdoors in cold zones, especially for smaller spaces.
• Cold frames, like the Outsunny Raised Garden Bed Cold Frame from Amazon, are a stylish way to protect your raised beds from frost and rain while trapping in heat.

More From Gardening Know How

South Carolina Native Trees
● Bald Cypress
● Southern Magnolia
● Eastern Redbud
● Blackgum

South Carolina Native Shrubs
● American Beautyberry
● Virginia Sweetspire
● Oakleaf Hydrangea
● Yaupon Holly

South Carolina Native Perennials
● Coreopsis
● Liatris
● Bee Balm
● Bluestar

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Rhode Island Hardiness Zone Map For Plants And Trees

This is the Rhode Island USDA zone map. This map will help you find the plant hardiness zone for your area. Understanding your plant hardiness zone will help you to create a lasting garden that will survive the winter weather in your area. In order to find your Rhode Island hardiness zone, you simply need to find where you live on the map. You will see that it is a certain color. Match that color to the legend to the right. The legend will say what zone you live in. The above planting zone map is based on the 2023 Rhode Island USDA zone map.

In 2023, the plant hardiness zones were changed to better reflect the temperatures in the U.S. over the past few decades. Due to climate change, the temperature zones are higher than they were in the past. Knowing your Rhode Island hardiness zone lets you better understand what plants will do well in your garden. You can use plants in your garden that are your growing zone or lower.

So, if your zone is 6, you can plant plants that are suitable for zones 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1. Your local nursery will carry many beautiful plants that are appropriate for your USDA Rhode Island planting zone. The plants will be clearly marked with the zone that they belong to. You can buy these plants and know that they will not die over the winter due to the temperature. If you would like to grow something that is not appropriate for your zone, you will need to protect that plant from the weather.

Pennsylvania Zones - Understanding Plant Hardiness

One of the first things that any new gardener should do is find where he or she lives on the Pennsylvania USDA plant hardiness map. Click on the map above to enlarge it and find your plant hardiness zone.

Plant hardiness, as defined by the USDA, refers to the hardiness of a particular species to tolerate average extreme winter low temperatures. Winter temperature data for the 2023 map was collected from thousands of weather stations all over the country over a period of thirty years. 

This data, as well as other factors, such as elevation and proximity to a large body of water, were used to set plant hardiness zones for all areas of the country.

Pennsylvania zones include 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b and a very small section of 8a. If you have a difficult time finding your location on the above map, you can visit the USDA site where you can input your zip code to find out exactly which zone you are in. The Pennsylvania plant map serves as an extremely useful tool and is a good starting point when choosing plants.

Many local nurseries will carry plants that are suitable for your particular growing region. 

Always follow planting and care instructions carefully to ensure the best results.

Plant Outside Your Zone with Season Extenders

• Agfabric floating plant covers from Amazon are an affordable way to trap heat and protect your plants against frost and wind
• The Ohuhu Portable Mini Greenhouse from Amazon is great for starting seedlings indoors or protecting plants outdoors in cold zones, especially for smaller spaces.
• Cold frames, like the Outsunny Raised Garden Bed Cold Frame from Amazon, are a stylish way to protect your raised beds from frost and rain while trapping in heat.

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Gardening in Oregon - Flower, Shrub and Tree Planting with the USDA Plant Map

Gardeners, especially those new to the hobby, want nothing more than to see their flowers, shrubs, and trees thrive. Sometimes choosing plants can be overwhelming, as there are some many varieties from which to select. While many factors come into play when considering the suitability of a particular plant, the Oregon USDA plant hardiness information should always be considered first.

Above is the new USDA plant hardiness map, which was released at the end of 2023. The new map divides the country into growing zones based on 10-degree F. intervals according to weather data collected over a thirty-year period. This weather data recorded the average extreme winter low temperatures for the country.

Oregon zones are expansive and include zones 5a through 10a. The southern coastal region is the warmest and winter extreme lows are 30 degrees F. (-1 C.), while the coolest regions in the state may dip to -20 degrees F. (-7 C.).

To find which Oregon zone you are in, you can enlarge the map above. If you want detailed information or cannot find your location on the map, you can visit the USDA site where you can input your zip code to find your zone.

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Understanding the Oklahoma USDA Planting Map

While there are many factors that determine how well plants do, in particular parts of the country, the USDA has been issuing a plant hardiness map since 1960 that has come to play a major factor in this determination. 

The planting map divides the country into hardiness zones based on average extreme winter low temperature data collected over a period.

The Oklahoma planting map is featured above and you can click on it to enlarge it and locate your growing zone. The state is divided into zones according to 10-degree increments. 

Oklahoma includes zones 6b, 7a, 7b and a small pocket of 8a in the southeastern part of the state. Knowing which zone you reside in is useful information for both novice and experienced gardeners. Although the plant hardiness information presented in the newer 2023 USDA map is not foolproof, it does offer gardeners a great resource. 

It is important to keep in mind that other factors also influence the success rate of certain plants in a particular area. These factors include, but are not limited too, humidity, winter sun, wind and microclimates that create warmer pockets. 

However, it is always wise to stick to plants that are labeled “safe” for your particular zone and use the Oklahoma plant map as your guide.

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Ohio Gardening - About the USDA Plant Hardiness Map

Ohio gardeners who want to ensure their perennial flowers, shrubs and trees survive all season should use the Ohio planting map, featured above, as a resource. This map divides the United States into hardiness zones based on weather data collected over the last thirty years by the USDA. 

The latest map, released at the end of 2023, is more detailed and sophisticated than the previous version.

This new version takes into account the general winter warming trend and other factors, such as proximity to a large body of water and elevation. When you click on the Ohio plant map above, you can easily locate your planting zone. 

Ohio does not have a whole lot of winter weather extreme variation and is divided into three subzones, 5b, 6a, 6b and 7a. 

There are a number of plants, shrubs and trees that will survive even the coldest average winter extreme temperature of -15 degrees F. found in this state. 

Although most local greenhouses and plant distributors will carry plants native for your region, it is always a good idea to check the planting zone before you purchase anything for your garden or landscape. 

Always follow planting and care instructions carefully.

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Learning About the North Dakota USDA Plant Hardiness Map

The USDA has been publishing plant hardiness maps since 1960. Used as a foundational tool for gardeners and plant distributors, this map divides the country in zones based on average extreme winter low temperatures. This data is useful when choosing which plants will do best in your region, particularly those that will survive and thrive in your winter climate.

North Dakota is divided into two major zones and three subzones, according to the new 2023 North Dakota planting map. A chilly 3b and 4a are in the northern part of the state while the remainder of the state falls into 4b. These cool regions mean that gardeners have to be particularly cautious of what shrubs, trees, and perennial flowers they plant. Although it is possible to have a lovely garden in North Dakota, plants must be able to survive the winter. Click on the map above to enlarge it and find your growing zone.

When choosing plants based on the North Dakota plant map, it is always best to choose native species that are well adapted to the climate of the region. Local greenhouses and nurseries carry native species that are suitable for your growing region. In addition to choosing plants that will survive the winter in your area, be sure to follow the planting and care instructions carefully to ensure a healthy garden.

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About Tennessee Plant Hardiness and the USDA Planting Map

If you live in Tennessee and are wondering about what kind of trees, shrubs or perennial flowers to put in your yard and garden, use the Tennessee USDA zone map above to locate your plant hardiness zone. Understanding your zone is critical to the success of your garden.

The 2023 plant hardiness map replaces the 2012 map and is based on weather information collected over a period of thirty years. Some parts of the country experienced a shift in zones due to a warming winter temperature trend. 

This warming trend opens up new possibilities for gardeners in some parts of the country. Click on the Tennessee planting map above to find your zone.

Zones in the state include 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b and 8a. When shopping for plants, it is useful to know your zone information. Plants that are suitable for your zone will be able to survive winter extreme temperatures as defined by the USDA plant hardiness zone map. 

This low temperature data is critical to the survival of particular plants in a region. If a plant cannot survive the average extreme low in an area, it should not be planted. While most local garden stores will carry only those plants that are appropriate for your Tennessee zone, it is always good to check before you make a purchase. 

Some plants that are not suitable for your winter temperatures can be treated as an annual or brought inside for the winter months.

If you live in North Carolina, you enjoy a relatively temperate climate, which makes it possible to grow a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and perennial flowers.

The 2023 North Carolina USDA planting map, as seen above, indicates which growing zones cover certain areas of the state. While the northwestern part of the state has the coolest average extreme winter lows, down to a possible -10 degrees F. (-23 C.), the southeastern part of the state rarely experiences winter lows to 20 degrees F. (-6.7 C.). North Carolina zones range from a 6a to 9a.

It is important to know your growing zone so you can choose and care for plants properly. You can also visit the United States Department of Agriculture website and put in your zip code if you are uncertain of where you fall within the zones.

Research done by the USDA during the years 1991-2020 has changed the growing zones in North Carolina. Most counties have been upped by a half zone. For example, Cabarrus County was previously designated a USDA zone of 7b on the 2012 map. The new map indicates Cabarrus County is now in zone 8. This isn’t the only North Carolina planting zone that’s changed. Keep reading to learn about updates to planting zones in N.C.

What Zone Is North Carolina?

So what zone is North Carolina? As with every state it depends on where you live. Planting zones for NC range from 6a to 9a.

Global annual temperatures have risen steadily since the 1960s and these climate changes lead to the need for a new hardiness zone map in 2023.

The 2023 map takes into account 30 years of weather data collected from thousands of weather stations throughout the United States. Each zone is in 10-degree increments and further divided into 5-degree subzones.

Factors such as elevation and proximity to a large body of water have also been used to calculate the zones.

Although many plants survive the North Carolina winter, there are some tropical species that will not, and gardeners living in the mountain regions have to be careful of their plant selection as well.

Overall, using the North Carolina USDA zone hardiness map provides good foundational knowledge for any gardener.

Different Planting Zones in N.C.

There are 26 hardiness zones based on the average annual extreme minimum temperature on record for a period of 30 years. The new map is color coded to help you determine exactly what your zone is. All you have to do to zero in on your USDA zone is enter your zip code.

There are 7 planting zones in NC, from 6a to 9a. The map is meant to be a guide however. Your particular microclimate may raise or lower your zone from an a to b. Even in a single city like the one I live in, the climate zone varies from a 7a to a 6b by just crossing town north to south. Plus, the map is created with past temperature data; it can’t forecast future temperatures.

Updates to the North Carolina Growing Zone Map

Parts of North Carolina have a humid, subtropical climate. The mountain ranges keep low temperatures heading in from Midwest storms at bay. The climate is also affected by the Atlantic Ocean, keeping the coastal areas warmer during winter. Overall, the climate in North Carolina is temperate allowing gardeners to grow an abundance of crops, perennials and annuals.

The increase in North Carolina growing zones doesn’t mean you have to rip out your existing landscape. What it does mean is that there may be slight changes to planting times for crops or the need for sun and heat protection for delicate plants that could previously withstand the sun.

What is for certain, is that if you have been a gardener for any length of time you’ve likely noticed a shift. More days over 90 F (32 C) in the summer, warmer nights, generally reliable plants that now droop or even die.

Plant Outside Your Zone with Season Extenders

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Gardening in New York - How to Use the New York USDA Plant Hardiness Map

The USDA began producing plant hardiness maps in 1960 and has been improving its accurateness ever since. In 2023, a new zone hardiness map was released that took the place of the previous 2012 map. The new map includes 8 zones. Above is the New York planting map that indicates the planting regions specific to the state of New York. 

There is a 10-degree difference between each planting zone and a 5-degree difference between sub zones.

Gardeners who wish to have a thriving garden should heed the zone data when considering what to plant. Most growers have adopted the plant hardiness information, and this zone information is generally included on the care instructions tag on flowers, shrubs and trees. 

According to the USDA map, New York zones include a wide range from 4a to 7b. Those living in zone 4a will not necessarily be able to grow the same plants that can be grown in 7b. Elevation and proximity to large bodies of water play a role in the winter extreme low temperature variance seen on the map.

Although the newest USDA plant hardiness map is more sophisticated than previous versions, it is still not a guarantee. Gardeners should be aware that there are other factors that influence plant hardiness including how and where the plant is placed in the landscape and how it is cared for. 

Use the data provided by the hardiness map as a foundation when choosing plants and be sure to do your research before incorporating any flower, shrub or tree into your landscape.

Plant Outside Your Zone with Season Extenders

• If you're growing in cooler zones, these Agfabric floating plant covers from Amazon are an affordable way to trap heat and protect your plants against frost and wind.
• The Ohuhu Portable Mini Greenhouse from Amazon is great for starting seedlings indoors or protecting plants outdoors in cold zones, especially for smaller spaces.
• Cold frames, like the Outsunny Raised Garden Bed Cold Frame from Amazon, are a stylish way to protect your raised beds from frost and rain while trapping in heat.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

Gardening Help - New Mexico Planting Map

New Mexico experiences a wide range in average winter extreme temperatures, from a chilly 5a in the northern part of the state to a very warm 8b in the south. There are many flowers, shrubs, and trees that thrive in all parts of this state and knowing which planting zone you live in will help you make the best selections for your area.

The 2023 New Mexico USDA planting map, as pictured above, is based on data collected from 8,000 weather stations all over the United States over a period of thirty years.

Previous USDA plant hardiness maps only considered data from a fifteen-year period. The new map changed somewhat from older versions to take into consideration warmer average winter temperatures as well as elevation data, proximity to a large body of water, and areas where urban heat is a factor. If you are wondering what plants would do best in your garden and landscape, you can enlarge the New Mexico plant map above to find your growing zone. Once you have determined which zone you are in, you can use that information to make educated decisions regarding the plants that will thrive in your garden. 

Reputable nurseries in your area will only carry plants that are clearly marked with the USDA planting zones that are appropriate for the plant that is for sale.

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Understanding New Jersey USDA Plant Hardiness Map

If you live in New Jersey and you want your garden to be a success, you need to know the growing zone that covers your region. The map above is the New Jersey planting map, which the USDA released for 2023.

New Jersey is divided into four different planting zones, 6b, 7a, 7b, and 8a. Click on the map to enlarge it to determine which zone you are in.

The USDA revised the old plant hardiness map to reflect changes in average winter low temperatures over the last thirty years. The map helps gardeners know which plants will survive winters in their region and is a great tool for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. In addition to new winter low temperatures, the USDA plant hardiness map now takes into consideration the closeness to a large body of water, elevation and the urban heat effect. 

Zone information should serve as a guide, so gardeners need to understand that failure to follow planting and care instructions can cause extensive damage, and even death, to a flower, shrub or tree. When shopping for plants for your region, visit your local greenhouses or plant distributors who will carry plants best suited for your USDA planting zone.

Extend your plant growing zones

• If you're growing in cooler zones, these Agfabric floating plant covers from Amazon are an affordable way to trap heat and protect your plants against frost and wind.
• The Ohuhu Portable Mini Greenhouse from Amazon is great for starting seedlings indoors or protecting plants outdoors in cold zones, especially for smaller spaces.
• Cold frames, like the Outsunny Raised Garden Bed Cold Frame from Amazon, are a stylish way to protect your raised beds from frost and rain while trapping in heat.

Click on the image above to see a larger version.

Learning About the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones in New Hampshire

New Hampshire can have cold winters, down to -35 degrees F. (-37 C.) in some parts. The New Hampshire USDA planting map divides this northerly state into six zones: 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b.

At the end of 2023, the USDA released a new plant hardiness zone map that was the product of 30 years of data collection from all over the country. Zones are categorized based on several factors with the most weight going toward extreme average winter low temperatures. 

Other factors that have been taken into consideration are elevation, urban heat, and proximity to a large body of water. Although things like humidity, winter sunshine, soil moisture, and duration exposed to cold temperatures are not factored in, it is wise for any gardener to start with the USDA planting zones.

The majority of the New Hampshire planting zones experience extremely cold winters with chilly lows; however, many flowers, shrubs, and trees can survive and thrive in this climate. It is always best to choose native species that are well adapted to specific growing regions and weather extremes.

Reputable nurseries in your area will only carry plants that are clearly marked with the USDA planting zones that are appropriate for the plant that is for sale. While the USDA New Hampshire zone map sets the standard for winter hardiness, it is not fool proof. Failing to properly plant or care for a flower, tree, or shrub or a freak weather occurrence, such as uncommonly cold or warm temperatures, can injure or kill plants. Use the New Hampshire planting map as a guide but always be aware of other variables.

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About Plant Hardiness Zones in Nevada

Before you start a gardening project, take the time to study the Nevada planting map created by the USDA. This map, new in 2023, yields valuable insight into which flowers, trees, and shrubs are suitable for your growing region based on average extreme winter temperatures

. The new USDA plant hardiness map is based on data collected over the last 30 years from over 8,000 weather stations positioned throughout the country. In addition to extreme winter temperatures, this map also considers an area's proximity to a large body of water, elevation, and urban heat. If you live in Nevada, you live in a state with 13 different planting regions. Nevada zones range from 4a through 10a. While the southerly sections of the state have a very mild winter with lows well above freezing, the mountainous regions can drop to a frigid -30 degrees F. (-34 C.). In order to be a successful gardener in this state, it is critical to know your zone. Simply enlarge the Nevada plant map above and find your location to determine your zone. Greenhouses and other retail plant outlets will be able to help you make the best decisions when it comes to planting in Nevada.

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Nebraska USDA Plant Hardiness Map for Gardeners

If you live in Nebraska and are planning your garden, it is wise to check your location on the Nebraska planting map. The map above is based on the new USDA plant hardiness map, which is the result of 30 years of data collection across the United States. Depending on the zone you are in, certain plants will be able to survive winter temperatures in your area better than others. Nebraska has four zones in the state as indicated on the new 2023 USDA plant hardiness map. The Nebraska planting map includes 4b, 5a, 5b, and 6a. The majority of the state experiences extreme winter low temperatures of -25 degrees F. to -10 degrees F. (-29 to -23 C.). Knowing which planting zone you are in helps to ensure you will not lose plants over the winter months.

Enlarge the above map and find your location in order to determine your growing zone. Those that are new to gardening should pay particular attention to the Nebraska plant map and use the information as a base for selecting plants. Native plants and those that are sold locally will do best in the Nebraska winter. Always check the Nebraska plant map before incorporating any new shrub, tree, or flowers into your garden.

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Using Montana Planting Map for the Best Garden

The vast majority of the state of Montana falls into Montana USDA growing zones 3a and 3b, 4a and 4b, 5a and 5b, 6a, and 6b. This growing map is used to determine which plants, trees, and shrubs will overwinter without damage in particular areas.

The new 2023 USDA plant hardiness map is the result of 30 years of data collection from over 8,000 weather stations throughout the country. The map, which formerly considered only average extreme winter low temperatures, now factors in essential data regarding elevation, urban heat, and proximity to large bodies of water. 

With the new data and a significant winter warming trend across the country, many zones have shifted up from previous versions of the map. Although no gardener should take the Montana planting map as an absolute guarantee, the information is extremely valuable. 

To find your location on the Montana plant map, enlarge the map above and determine your zone or visit the USDA site where you can put your zip code into the new interactive feature. 

When selecting plants for your garden, it is wise to use the USDA plant hardiness information as a foundation. Most local greenhouses and nurseries will carry trees, shrubs, and flowers that are suitable for your region.

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Missouri Planting Map Information for Gardeners

Gardeners in Missouri benefit from information provided by the USDA plant hardiness map. New information, collected over the past 30 years, has been compiled to create the latest 2023 map.

Some areas of the country have seen their growing zones rise due to warmer winter lows that are possibly due to global warming. The map of Missouri above is divided into planting zones according to the average extreme winter low temperatures over the last 30 years.

Missouri is divided into four planting zones: 5b in the north, 6a and 6b in the central regions along with 7a and 7b towards the south. A small area in the southeast corner of the state enjoys the warmer growing zone of 8a. Use the map above to find your location and determine your growing zone. 

Other factors influence the hardiness of certain flowers, trees and shrubs such as humidity, winter sunshine, rainfall amounts, microclimates and soil type. Using the USDA plant hardiness zone information is an excellent starting place for novice gardeners and is a reliable reference for those who have been gardening all of their life.

 It is prudent of all gardeners to consider the data collected and the Missouri plant map before purchasing flowers, trees or shrubs.

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Mississippi Growing Zones for Plants, Trees, and Shrubs

Mississippi enjoys a rather temperate climate and according to the Mississippi USDA planting map, the state includes zones 7b, 8a, 8b, and 9a. Many plants, trees, and shrubs thrive in these zones and gardeners tend to enjoy a longer growing season.

The 2023 USDA plant hardiness map takes into consideration average annual extreme winter low temperatures for the past 30 years. Some changes have been made to the map that also takes into account the general winter warming trend. The extreme winter low temperatures have risen over the past data collection period.

To find which growing zone you are in, you can enlarge the above map and find the area where you live. Although many plants enjoy warmer weather in zones 8 through 9, some flowers, trees, and shrubs do require a period of colder weather in the winter in order to thrive. 

While the northern United States battles temperatures that are too low for some plants, those in the south cannot successfully grow certain plants because winter lows are too high. While you can visit your local nursery where all the plants for sale should thrive in your particular growing zone, you may be interested in obtaining plants from other sources, such as online distributors. 

Fortunately, most online dealers will use USDA plant hardiness zone information. Just be sure that any plant you purchase is suitable for your Mississippi zone in order to keep your garden looking its best.

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About the USDA Minnesota Plant Map

While there are many trees, shrubs and flowers that can survive a chilly Minnesota winter, it is useful to know exactly which ones these are before you purchase your plants. The Minnesota USDA plant hardiness map provides information based on average winter low temperature data collected over a 30-year time period.

The USDA plant hardiness map for 2023 indicates that Minnesota growing zones include 3a and 3b in the northerly regions, 4a and 4B in the middle of the state, adding zones 5a in the south.

To find your growing zone on the Minnesota planting map, enlarge the map above and look for your general area. On the USDA site, you can search your growing zone by zip code as well. Your local greenhouse will generally carry plants that are suitable for your growing zone; however, it is always advantageous to check to be sure that they will thrive in your region. 

Use the plant hardiness zone map information to make this determination. Although other factors affect the vitality of plants such as humidity, rain, wind, soil type and general plant care, the USDA plant hardiness map provides useful information for novice and experience gardeners alike.

Your Michigan growing zone is an important piece of information to understand when choosing what to grow in your garden. The growing zone, determined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is set by average minimum winter temperatures and helps you decide what plants will survive the winter months.

The Michigan planting map includes zones of cooler areas like 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b. There are also warmer pockets in the state that include zones 6a and 6b. Keep in mind that the USDA growing zones were updated in 2023. While not all areas changed, many did, so your zone might be different from what it was a few years ago.

You can locate your planting zone on the map below. Then keep reading to learn what you need to know about the Michigan planting zones to grow a thriving garden.

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Understanding Growing Zones

Understanding which growing zone you reside in is of enormous assistance when you are selecting flowers, trees, shrubs, or perennial food crops for your landscape or garden.

Within each growing zone are microclimates, which exist because of landscape features such as hills or valleys or hardscape elements including buildings, concrete, and paved pathways. Other factors such as the winter sun, wind, humidity, and soil nutrients play a role in determining how hardy a particular plant will be through the winter.

In general, the USDA planting zone map is an extremely useful tool and most plant distributors and local nurseries will provide zone information with their plants.

What Planting Zone Is Michigan?

Michigan is divided into three different growing zones and further subdivided into six subzones: 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b. Each hardiness zone across the U.S. is defined by the lowest average annual temperature that occurs in winter.

Each zone includes a ten-degree Fahrenheit range of minimum temperatures. The zones are divided into five-degree subzones. The USDA zones and subzones range from 1 in the coldest parts of the country, like Alaska, to 13 in the warmest areas, like Puerto Rico.

The USDA zones and subzones determine which plants are perennial based on their hardiness in those minimum temperatures. When choosing plants, you’ll see a hardiness zone, such as 6, which tells you that a plant should survive winter in zone 6 and grow as a perennial there.

Michigan Hardiness Zones by Region

The updates to the 2023 USDA hardiness zone map created shifts in growing zones for many gardeners. The current map is the most detailed that the agency has ever produced and represents climate data from 1991 to 2020.

In general, the changes shifted half of the U.S. into warmer growing zones. The USDA added zones 12 and 13 to accommodate changes in the warmest regions. About 40% of Michigan shifted. These changes include warmer subzones along a lot of the coastal areas of the Great Lakes. Some areas of the Upper Peninsula (U.P.) warmed by an entire zone.

Southern Lower Peninsula

Most of the Southern Lower Peninsula is in growing zone 6a. Smaller pockets of 6b include the west coast, along Lake Michigan, the coast along Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, and the eastern areas of metro Detroit and the city of Detroit. Cities tend to be warmer, even within zones and subzones.

Zone 6a covers areas where the average annual extreme minimum temperatures are between -10 and -5°F (-23 to -20.5°C). Zone 6b is -5 to 0°F (-20.5 to -17.8°C).

Northern Lower Peninsula

The Northern Lower Peninsula is largely in zone 5, excepting the coasts. A small pocket, the region around Burt and Mullett Lakes, and south nearly to Gaylord, is in zone 4b. A larger area surrounding this region is in zone 5a. It includes Gaylord, Grayling, and Cadillac.

There is a narrow ring of zone 5b around the 5a zone. This subzone dips south into Muskegon and Montcalm Counties and stretches nearly to the Lake Michigan and Lake Huron coasts. It includes the eastern parts of Oceana, Mason, and Manistee Counties, southeastern Grand Traverse County, and most of Antrim, Charlevoix, Newaygo, Mecosta, Gladwin, and Arenac Counties. Small central bands of Iosco, Alcona, Alpena, and Presque Isle Counties are in this zone.

In zone 5b, you may experience winter temperatures as cold as between -15 and -10°F (-26 to -23°C). Zone 5a includes temperatures between -20 and -15°F (-28.8 to -26°C).

Coastal Lower Peninsula

The coastal areas of Michigan are warmer than the interior. This puts almost all of the coast of Lake Michigan in zone 6b. The tip of the thumb on Lake Huron is also in zone 6b, while most of the rest of that coast is in zone 6a. The far northern tip of the Lower Peninsula, including Mackinac Island, is in zone 5b.

Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula, or U.P., has a lot of variation in its growing zones. The tip of the peninsula of Delta County in Lake Michigan and the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula in Lake Superior are in zone 6a. Most of the rest of the Lake Michigan and Lake Huron coasts are in zone 5b, as is much of the Lake Superior coast.

Most of the eastern part of the U.P. is in zone 5a, with small pockets of 4b in Chippewa, Luce, and Alger Counties. The western part of the U.P. has some pockets of zone 4a, including parts of Gogebic, Iron, Baraga, and Marquette Counties. This is surrounded by a band of zone 4b and a narrower band of zone 5a.

The average extreme low temperatures for the U.P. include -25 to -20°F (-31.6 to -28.8°C) in zone 4b and -30 to -25°F (-34.4 to -31.6°C) in zone 4a.

Know your Michigan growing zone for the best results when gardening. Your zone indicates the trees, shrubs, and perennials that will survive your winter and give you good growth for years. Anything from warmer zones is still growable, but use these plants as annuals or houseplants.

Garden Tools for Michiganders

In 2023 the United States Department of Agriculture updated its longstanding plant hardiness map to reflect changing low temperatures.

Using this Map

The USDA hardiness zones are based on an average of lowest winter temperature over several years. It's meant to be used to determine winter hardiness – some plants won't survive a winter that gets below 0 F (-18 C), for instance. Those plants are much less likely to survive outdoors in zone 7a or colder.

That being said, it's important to remember that these zones are based on averages. Some years will have warmer lowest temperatures, and some will have colder. There's no guarantee that your plant will make it in the zone it's rated for.

It's a good guideline, but take it with a pinch of salt.

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The Berkshires

The westernmost part of Massachusetts runs along the border with New York state and climbs up into the Berkshire Mountains. Because this part of the state has the highest elevation, it's on average the coldest and therefore the lowest in USDA zones.

The majority of Western Mass is in zone 5b, which means the average lowest temperature is between -15 and -10 F (-26- -23 C). Winter comes early and stays late here, compared to the rest of the state. Driving west on the Mass Pike in late fall, you'll often be surprised by a sudden appearance of snow on the ground when you reach this zone.

Along the southern border with Connecticut, and in the lower elevations where the mountains are smaller, you'll find zone 6a. The average coldest temperature here is between -5 and -10 F (-23- -20 C).

Central Mass

From Springfield and Greenfield over to Worcester in the east, Central Massachusetts is mostly zone 6a, with some 5b in the north and a hint of 6b in the south. As a rule, zone 6a clings to the Connecticut river, cutting a warmer path north all the way to Greenfield.

Eastern Mass

Elevation in Massachusetts is a steady slide into the ocean. As a rule, the further east you go, the closer to sea level you'll be. East of Worcester and Lowell, almost to the coast, you'll find zone 6b nearly everywhere. (Though up north along New Hampshire, you'll still find some 6a).

The most extreme average winter temperature here falls between -5 and 0 F (-21- -18 C). Downright balmy!

The Coast

Zone 7a hugs the coast, from Gloucester down through Boston and Plymouth, all the way to New Bedford. The lowest winter temps here average between 0 and 5 F (-18- -15 C). This is from a combination of the stabilizing effect water has on temperature, and the land being right at sea level.

Cape Cod and the Islands

This part of Massachusetts that extends out into the ocean is split fairly evenly between zones 7a and 7b. Martha's Vineyard and the inner Cape are solidly zone 7a, matching the coastal region with a low of 0-5 F (-18- -15 C).

Nantucket and the outer Cape fall into zone 7b and are the warmest parts of the whole state. Lowest average temperatures here fall between 5 and 0 F (-15- -12 C).

Plant Outside Your Zone with Season Extenders

• Row covers like these Agfabric floating plant covers from Amazon are an affordable way to trap heat and protect your plants against frost and wind, making them perfect for growing in cooler zones.
• The Ohuhu Portable Mini Greenhouse from Amazon is great for starting seedlings indoors or protecting plants outdoors in cold zones, especially for smaller spaces.
• Cold frames, like the Outsunny Raised Garden Bed Cold Frame from Amazon, are a stylish way to protect your raised beds from frost and rain while trapping in heat.

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Learn About USDA Maryland Planting Map

Farmers and gardeners who wish to determine winter plant hardiness for particular crops and plants use the USDA plant hardiness zone map. The map considers average annual extreme winter temperature data over a 30-year period to create growing zones in 10-degree F. increments. 

The USDA released a new map for 2023, which takes into account changes in winter low temperatures over the last 30 years. New data indicates a general warming trend in winter temperatures, which has resulted in some changes in zone categorization. The USDA plant hardiness zones are to be used as a general guideline for planting. 

Gardeners should be aware that there are other factors that will affect the hardiness of a plant which includes wind, soil type, humidity, snow moisture and how plants are incorporated into a landscape.

The 2023 USDA Maryland plant map includes zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, and 8a. The easiest way to use the map is to click on the above map, enlarge it, and find your general area. Both novice and experienced gardeners benefit from the information provided in the USDA plant hardiness map. The majority of nurseries and plant distributors use USDA zone information on their plant labels. 

If your Maryland zone is included on the label, you can be confident that the plant will survive the winter in your area, assuming that you follow planting and care instructions specific to the particular plant.

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Information On Maine Hardiness Zones

The map on this page is the USDA map of planting zones for Maine. This map will help you to find your USDA Maine hardiness zone. If you live in Maine, you live in one of these hardiness zones. To use this USDA Maine hardiness zone map, all you need to do is find where you live on the map and match the color of that area of that map to the colors on the legend to the right. This will tell you what planting zone in Maine you live in.

The USDA Maine map above is based on the updated 2023 version of the USDA hardiness map. The USDA decided to update their hardiness zone map in 2023 to better reflect the changes in climate that had occurred over the past several decades. The USDA had found that previously identified hardiness zones in Maine had shifted. This map shows where the new growing zones in Maine are. Understanding what USDA Maine planting zone you live in is important to how well your garden will do. Knowing your zone allows you to choose plants that will survive the winter. If you try to grow plants that are not appropriate to your zone, the plants you grow will die. Plants that are appropriate ones for the Maine hardiness zone you live in can be found at your local plant nurseries or stores. The perennials they carry will be clearly marked with the zone that they are suitable for. You can plant any perennial that is marked for your growing zone or lower.

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Learn About Planting Zones For Louisiana

The map above is the USDA Louisiana climate zones map. The purpose of this map is to show the growing zones for plants and trees in Louisiana. In the state of Louisiana, there are three USDA growing zones. Using the USDA planting zone map for Louisiana is very easy. Just look at the map and locate where you live in Louisiana. Match the color of the place where you live to the legend at the right. This will tell you what the USDA planting zone for Louisiana your garden is in.

In 2023, the USDA reevaluated the planting zones on the map. Historically warmer temperatures have shifted the previous zones. The zones for plants and trees in Louisiana on this map reflect these shifts. When you know what growing zone you live in, you are able to plant perennials in your garden that will grow well and will be able to survive the winter. Louisiana is fortunate in that the warm temperature zones mean that many plants will grow there.

To find plants that will grow well in your zone, you can visit a local gardening nursery or store. These places will carry plants that are meant to grow in your zone. These plants will also be marked with what the best planting zone for them is. You can plant any perennial in your garden that is your zone or lower. So, if you live in zone 8, you can grow plants in zones 8 down to zone 1.

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Information On Kentucky Climate Zones

This is the USDA Kentucky planting zone map. You can look at this map to learn the Kentucky climate zones and which one you live in. In order to find your USDA planting zone, simply look at the map and locate where you live. Then, match the color of that location to the legend to the right. This will tell you which of the Kentucky climate zones you live in.

The Kentucky growing zone map above is based on the 2023 USDA map of growing zones. In 2023, the USDA map was revised to take into account the warmer temperatures that have been recorded in the past few decades. Plants, particularly perennial plants, grow in specific temperature ranges. 

The USDA map simplifies the temperature ranges found in Kentucky and the rest of the U.S. Knowing your USDA Kentucky planting zone is important to your gardening efforts because it will help you choose plants that will thrive in the area that you live in.

You can find plants that grow in your planting zone at your local plant nursery or store. Reputable plant nurseries and stores will only carry perennial plants that have their proper growing zone clearly marked. The employees at your local plant nursery or store will also be able to help you choose plants that are appropriate for your USDA Kentucky planting zone.

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About Wyoming USDA Plant Hardiness Map

The USDA revealed its Internet friendly plant hardiness map at the end of 2023. This map replaces the less sophisticated 2012 version and has made some significant changes using accurate data collected over a thirty-year period. Plant hardiness zones represent annual extreme winter low temperatures averaged over time. Gardeners across the country depend on this information when selecting plants for their home landscape.

The Wyoming planting map above outlines the hardiness zones within the state. Most of the state experiences very cold winter temperatures; however, there are some warmer pockets. To find your zone you can click on the map to enlarge it.

While there are perennial flowers, trees, and shrubs that will do well in the cold Wyoming winter, it is essential to know which ones these are before planting. Failure to consider which Wyoming zone you are in could lead to plant failure and disappointment.

For best results when planting anything in your garden or landscape, always follow the planting and care guidelines in addition to choosing plants that are appropriate for your Wyoming zone. Reputable nurseries in your area will only carry plants that are clearly marked with the USDA planting zones that are appropriate for the plant that is for sale.

Texas growing zones are unusual in that there are five USDA plant hardiness zones across the state: 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. It’s necessary to understand your particular zone because the elevation changes and different ecoregions just within Texas can produce climates from arid deserts to the subtropics. It is important if you garden in these zones to learn how this information impacts the success of what you plant.

The USDA planting zones divide the country into thirteen different planting zones. Each 10-° zone specifies the average annual extreme minimum winter temperature that a plant can tolerate and still come back the next year (Click on USDA planting zones for a map). Each zone is further divided into 5-° increments, which are designated as A and B, and are not shown on this map.

The USDA zones are often printed on plant tags for your use. For example, if a tag says the perennial plant is hardy to zone 7 and you live in zone 8, the plant should return for you next year provided its other necessary growing conditions are met. But if you live in zone 5, it would be wise to choose another plant. Understanding your Texas planting zone will help you choose appropriate plants that will thrive year after year.

Click on the image below to see a larger version of the West Texas map. For a larger version of the East Texas map, click here.

Understanding the USDA Zone Map

The latest USDA plant hardiness map from 2023 is an upgrade from the old 2012 map, which was not nearly as sophisticated as the new map. Changes to the hardiness zones take into consideration more factors such as elevation, proximity to a large body of water, and urban heat.

Although the Texas zone map is not always a guarantee that plants will survive, it does provide a very strong framework for planning a garden. Other factors may come into play when considering the success or failure of a particular shrub, flower, or tree. Those include planting location, soil condition, and humidity.

Once you have purchased a plant that is suitable for your growing region, be sure to follow the planting care instructions carefully. If you move to a new growing zone, even within the state of Texas, be sure to learn about your new hardiness guidelines for a successful garden.

Growing Zones in Texas

Texas is divided into several different USDA zones ranging from 6b to 10a. Here are the winter temperature extremes and ideas for Texas garden plants that thrive in each of the planting zones in the Lone Star State.

Zone 6b

In zone 6b, which has winter lows ranging from -5 to 0°F (-20.6 to -17.8°C), plants should be able to withstand temperatures down to -5°F during the winter months and return the next spring.

Plants that should thrive in this northern Texas zone include the native plants like the American beautyberry shrub, false indigo, red yucca, Texas rock rose, bee balm, coral honeysuckle, and passion vine.

Zone 7

Zone 7, which has winter lows ranging from 0 to 10°F (-17.8 to -12.2°C), covers parts of the Texas panhandle, including dryland and rolling plains. Plants should be able to survive temperatures down to 0°F and still return in the spring.

Plants that should thrive include the native plants American beautyberry, Texas betony, skullcap, mealycup sage, Gregg’s mistflower, frogfruit, cedar sage, Turk’s cap lily, and flame acanthus.

Zone 8

Zone 8, which has winter lows as cold as 10 to 20°F (-12.2 to -6.7°C), spans western Texas (arid, dry), central Texas (diversified dryland) and eastern Texas (good rains, humid summers). Plants should be able to withstand winter temperatures down to 10°F and return in spring.

Native plants that do well in this zone include American beautyberry shrub, flame acanthus, 'Lynn’s Legacy' cenizo, red yucca, Texas lantana, Texas sage, Turk’s cap, cedar sage, lyreleaf sage, Texas verbena, coral honeysuckle, and Gulf muhly grass.

Zone 9

Zone 9, which experience winter temperatures between 20 to 30°F (-6.7 to -1.1°C), includes coastal and southern Texas. These areas have sandy soil and long, humid summers. Plants should be able to withstand winter temperatures down to 20°F and still come back in spring.

Native plants for this zone include firebush, flame acanthus, 'Gold Star' esperanza, red yucca, Texas lantana, Texas sage, Turk’s cap, cedar sage, mealycup sage, Texas verbena, coral honeysuckle, and Gulf muhly grass.

Zone 10a

In zone 10a, which has a subtropical environment, winter lows only get down to 30 to 35°F (-1.1 to 1.7°C). Plants should be able to withstand temperatures to 30°F during the winter months and still return the next spring.

Native plants that do well in this climate include American beautyberry, flame acanthus, red yucca, Texas lantana, Texas rock rose, Texas sage, cedar sage, mealycup sage, coral honeysuckle, and Lindheimer’s muhly grass.

Texas Regions

Beyond the USDA hardiness zones, the Texas AgriLife Extension divides the state into seven regions based on climate and soil type:

• Region A: Panhandle and High Plains
• Region B: North and Central Texas
• Region C: Northeast and East Texas
• Region D: West Texas
• Region E: Upper Rio Grande
• Region F: Hill Country and Central Coast
• Region G: Southeast Texas
• Region H: Rio Grand Valley

Their Earth-Kind® Plant Selector allows you to find plants suitable for these regions. In addition, Texas Superstar® Plants are jointly selected by Texas plant experts to recommend annuals, perennials, woody shrubs, trees, fruits and vegetables that excel in the Lone Star State.

Top Tools for Texas Gardeners

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About the Kansas USDA Zones for Growing Plants

It's important to view the USDA plant hardiness zones map for information about plant hardiness. This not only provides hardiness growing zones for all states but will also tell you the garden zones for USDA in Kansas. The above map is for the Kansas USDA zones and can be used to determine the most ideal plants for your area. By looking at the Kansas zone map above and locating the approximate area in which you live, you will be able to find your hardiness planting zone. Simply compare the zone colors on the Kansas zone map for your area with those found on the legend to the right.

Due to climate changes and increasingly warmer temperatures, this map of Kansas USDA zones is based on the revised USDA in Kansas (and all other states) that was made in 2023. More and more areas are finding that warmer hardiness growing zones are moving northward. It is important to understand your Kansas zone map in order to choose the most suitable plants for your area. For areas bordering separate zones, choosing plants that tolerate cooler conditions (such as a zone lower) will oftentimes help ensure their winter survival, as those that are less hardy will require additional protection or relocation indoors.

Your local nursery can provide plants that are suitable for USDA in Kansas. Keep in mind, however, that only reputable nurseries specialize in selling landscaping plants appropriate for your area's hardiness zone and will have these clearly marked as such. In addition to these plants, non-hardy species may also be available. These, too, should be clearly marked.

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About Hardiness Growing Zones in Iowa

If you are looking for the growing zones in Iowa, you will need to refer to the USDA plant hardiness zone map. The USDA hardiness map above, for Iowa growing zones, can help you determine what planting zone you live in. You can find growing zones in Iowa by looking at the map above and locating the general area in which you live. Then you can compare the color of your planting zone to those found in the legend to the right of the Iowa plant zones map.

This map, which represents Iowa plant zones, is based on the 2023 revision to the USDA planting zones. This change was made due to the recent climate changes, resulting in warmer climate zones in some areas that were previously cooler. You should take time to understand your Iowa growing zones so you can choose plants that will tolerate your winter region. By choosing plants matching your zone, or one lower, they will be better equipped to survive wintry conditions. Plants grown outside your zone, or in higher zones, will generally require additional protection or relocation indoors. You can find plants appropriate for growing zones in Iowa at your local nursery. Reputable nurseries will sell landscaping plants that survive your area's climate conditions. These plants will also be marked as hardy to a specific growing zone. Non-hardy plants should also be labeled as such.

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About USDA Indiana Hardiness Planting Zones

If you're looking for USDA Indiana growing zones, the map above can help determine the proper hardiness zone for your area. Knowing the correct zone for where you live in Indiana can make gardening easier and more successful. To determine plant hardiness for your Indiana climate zones, check the map above for the approximate locality in which you live. Compare the growing zone color for your area to the colors found in the legend on the right.

Due to the increasing warm climate changes over the years, the above map of Indiana climate zones is based on the 2023 revision of the USDA hardiness zone map. In some instances, the climate changes have resulted in some warmer hardiness zones moving northward. You may find that the map above shows a different zone than you previously thought you lived in. Taking the time to become familiar with the USDA Indiana zones can help ensure the overall health and survival of your plants. Choosing plants that are known to survive in your area on the USDA Indiana map will not require the additional protection as those that are not hardy to the growing conditions in which they will be exposed.

In most cases, you can find plants that are suitable for Indiana climate zones at your local nursery. While reputable nurseries may specialize in plants hardy to your area, they may also have non-hardy varieties available. In either case, these plants will be clearly marked as such.

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About the Illinois Hardiness Planting Zone

Knowing your Illinois planting zone will make gardening much easier for you. In order to learn more about Illinois growing zones, it's important to view the USDA plant hardiness zones map. This not only provides hardiness zones for all states but will also tell you what garden zone Illinois is.

The map provided here is for the Illinois hardiness planting zone, which should help determine the most ideal plants for your area. Illinois growing zones range from zones 5a to 7b. By looking at the map above and locating the approximate area in which you live, you will be able to find your Illinois hardiness planting zone. 

Simply compare the color-coded zones for your area with those of the legend on the right of the map.

Due to climate changes and increasingly warmer temperatures, this map of Illinois growing zones is based on the revised USDA planting zones made in 2023. It is important to understand your Illinois hardiness planting zones in order to choose the most suitable plants for your area. 

For areas bordering separate zones, choosing plants that tolerate cooler conditions (such as a zone lower) will oftentimes help ensure their winter survival, as those that are less hardy will require additional protection. Most local nurseries provide plants that are suitable for Illinois growing zones. 

Keep in mind that only reputable nurseries specialize in selling landscaping plants appropriate for your area's hardiness zone and will have these clearly marked as such.

In addition to these plants, non-hardy species may also be available. These, too, should be clearly marked.

Understanding the Washington USDA Planting Map

The coastal regions of Washington State enjoy a very temperate climate with average extreme winter lows of 20 degrees F. (-7 C.). 

The central and easterly portion of the state, however, could dip down to as low as -30 degrees F. (-34 C.).

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For the past thirty years, the USDA has collected data from weather stations around the country to use for zone determination on their new 2023 plant hardiness map. Above is the Washington planting map that you can enlarge to find your zone. 

If you have difficulty finding your exact location on the map, you can visit the USDA site where you can use the new zip code zone finder feature. Knowing where you are on the Washington plant map is great information to have when you are planning a new garden or just adding to your existing landscape.

When you use plants appropriate for your growing zone, it is not an absolute guarantee that they will be successful, but it is an excellent place to start. Experienced gardeners know that there are other factors at play when deciding on which plants to use including soil type, humidity, and the effect of microclimates. Start with plants that are recommended for your growing zone, then research other factors that may have an influence on your plants as well. 

Local greenhouses and nurseries carry native species that are suitable for your growing region. 

In addition to choosing plants that will survive the winter in your area, be sure to follow the planting and care instructions carefully to ensure a healthy garden.

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About The USDA Idaho Hardiness Planting Zone

If you are looking to find out what your growing zones in Idaho are, you will need to look at a USDA map of the plant hardiness zones. The above map is for Idaho plant zones and can help you find what planting zone you live in. 

You can find your Idaho hardiness planting zone by looking at the map above and locating approximately where you live on that map. Note the color of the growing zone in Idaho where your town is located, and then compare that color to the legend to the right.

This Idaho plant zones map is based on the 2023 revision to the USDA planting zones. This change was made to the hardiness zone map due to the increasingly warm climate that has occurred over the past few decades.

The reason you should take time to understand your Idaho hardiness planting zone is because you should be choosing plants for your garden that will survive the winter in your area. By choosing plants that either match your zone or will survive in a lower zone, the plants you choose will be better equipped to survive the conditions in your area. If you choose to grow plants that are suitable for a higher zone, you will need to provide extra protection, or even bring these plants indoors for the winter.

You can find plants appropriate for growing zones in Idaho at your local nursery. Reputable nurseries will only sell perennials for landscaping that will survive the winter in your area. These plants will be clearly marked with the zone that they are meant for. Your local nursery may also sell some non-zone-appropriate perennials, but these will be marked as non-hardy.

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Understanding More About Hawaii Plant Growing Zones

This is the map of the USDA planting zones for Hawaii. It can help you learn how the temperatures in your area will affect the plants you grow in your garden and what plants you should be choosing for your garden. This is one of the warmest areas on the USDA plant hardiness zone map. Finding your planting zone for Hawaii is easy. Match where you live on the Hawaii USDA map to the legend on the right. The color will indicate what planting zone you live in.

This Hawaii USDA plant hardiness zone map is based on the 2023 version of the USDA plant hardiness map for the United States. The plant hardiness zones were redrawn in 2023 to better account for the change in weather and temperature patterns that have happened over the last few decades. You may find that your zone is higher than you had previously thought. The reason you should know your planting zone for Hawaii if you are a gardener is because it will help you to make better choices for the plants in your garden. Using plants that are appropriate for your zone in your garden will result in a garden that looks beautiful year after year.

In Hawaii, since the zones are so high, you can technically grow almost any plant, but be aware that some of the plants in lower zones may need a period of cold in order to be healthy. Your local plant nursery will have plants that are appropriate for your zone and those plants will be clearly marked for which zone they belong to.

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Learn more about the USDA planting zones for Georgia

The above map is the USDA map of plant hardiness zones for Georgia. It is intended to answer the question of what is the planting zones for Georgia. If you wish to learn what your Georgia USDA plant hardiness zone is, you can find where you live on the map and compare the color of that location to the legend to the right. This will indicate what planting zone you live in.

This map is from the 2023 USDA plant hardiness zone map. In 2023, the USDA revisited the recognized plant hardiness zones to determine whether the zones needed to be adjusted to account for the warmer climate that we now live in. They found this to be the case, and changed the map to better reflect current climate trends. 

When you know your plant hardiness zones for Georgia, it will make it much easier to plant your garden. Using plants in your garden that are appropriate for your planting zone will ensure that they survive the winter in your area. You can plant any plant that is in your planting zone for Georgia or lower.

Plants from reputable nurseries and stores will be clearly marked with the most appropriate zone. If you wish to grow a plant meant for a higher zone than where you live, you will need to provide extra shelter for that plant in the winter.