USDA Plant Hardiness Zones
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zones are a system gardeners use to determine which plants will grow best in different areas of the United States. Created by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), this system divides the country into 13 zones based on how cold it gets in the winter. Each zone is based on the average lowest temperature that region experiences yearly.
Understanding USDA Zones
Temperature-Based Zones: The USDA zones are determined by the coldest temperature that usually happens each winter. For example, Zone 1 is the coldest, with temperatures as low as -60°F (-51°C), while Zone 13 is the warmest, with winter temperatures above 60°F (16°C).
Choosing the Right Plants: These zones help gardeners pick plants likely to survive in their area. Plants are often labelled with a zone range, so you can choose ones that match your local climate.
Beyond Just Cold: While USDA Zones are great for understanding how plants handle cold weather, they don’t account for other important factors like humidity, heat, soil type, or rainfall. Gardeners need to consider these things, too, when planning their gardens.
Where Are the Zones?: The USDA zones cover the entire United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as parts of Canada and Mexico. Most states have more than one zone because different parts of the state can have different climates.
The Zone Map: The USDA has a map that shows which zone you live in. This map has been updated to reflect climate changes, with the most recent update in 2012.
In summary, the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones are an important tool for gardeners. They help you understand which plants best suit your area’s winter temperatures, making it easier to grow a successful garden.
