The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is produced by the United States Department of Agriculture, and it is the standard by which you can determine which plants are most likely to thrive in any specific location. The map is divided into 10°F sections dependent on the average annual minimum winter temperature.
Find your zone
The zones identified in Fine Gardening are based on several sources and should be treated as general guidelines when selecting plants for your garden. Many other factors may come into play in determining healthy plant growth. Microclimates, wind, soil type, soil moisture, humidity, snow, and winter sunshine may greatly affect the adaptability of plants. For more information and to zoom in on your area, visit the map at the USDA website, where you can type in your zip code to find out your hardiness zone.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map of the continental United States plus Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico
Finding plant hardiness zones
Most plants purchased from a nursery or garden center will have the hardiness zone information on the tag.
A plant purchased at a nursery or garden center will have the hardiness zone information on the plant tag, if available. If none is available, you can search online for the hardiness zones using the plant name and cultivar, if known.
In this example, the plant tag mentions that Diamond Frost® euphorbia should be considered an annual in all zones except zones 10a–11b, meaning it is not hardy in less temperate zones and will die if exposed to cold or extreme winter weather.
Searching for plant information online
There are many sources online to find plant information including zone, region, and plant care needs. The grower of a cultivar is a great place to start for specific information. Other sites such as the Missouri Botanical Garden have well-established and trustworthy records that can be used for reference.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Spearhead Shade Gardening Shovel with Steel-Reinforced Fiberglass Handle
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Reduce Digging Effort - The Spear Head Spade is the first hybrid shovel/spade, guaranteed to make your toughest digging up to 80% easier than regular shovels and spades, even in the toughest soil conditions. Ideal for landscaping and gardening.
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Innovative Design - Has a unique blade design that makes it more efficient and easier to use than traditional spades. The blade is shaped like a spearhead, with a pointed tip and a curved edge that allows it to penetrate the soil more easily.
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Dewit 3-Piece Tool Gift Set with 3-Tine Cultivator, Forged Trowel and Forged Hand Fork
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Dimensions: 13.75" L x 2.75" W x 10.5" H; 2.1 lbs. 3-piece gift set includes the DeWit 3-Tine Cultivator, Forged Trowel and Forged Hand Fork. Ideal for the avid gardener in your life or for yourself! Perfect for planting, digging, aerating, cultivating, and weeding.
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Consistent & Even Watering Drip Irrigation Hose: Makes use of a clog-resistant fabric cover recycled vinyl for consistent slow soaking seep throughout its entire length. Deliver water to the entire area that it covers. Only certain areas of your garden bed getting watered. For waste-free watering in garden beds and other tight spaces. Waters the base of the plants so less water-related leaf damage. Linkable Garden Soaker Hose For DIY Irrigation System: End to end connectable drip water hose, flexible versatile Above-ground or bury it below a up to 3-inch layer of mulch or soil; this fit with garden hose threads and come with rust resistant end caps that make it possible to connect multiple hoses and works well with timers.
Maneuverability And 100% Environmentally Friendly Drip Hose: Double layer design PVC Covered With Extra-Strength Fabric material protect from sun damage than rubber weeping hose; ensure the longevity of the soaker hose, which is ideal for you using it regularly through all seasons in your garden. Made of 100% environmentally friendly recycled vinyl, pass CA65 test, water is safe for ground which makes it perfect for use with vegetables, herbs, and other edible plants. Easy To Store Flat Soaker Hose: This irrigation drip hose flat design is kink-resistant, lies flat makes it a breeze to roll up and store for next season.The flat shape also makes it simple to snake under existing plant growth. One-Year Warranty on Flat Soaker Hoses: Ensure a water pressure of 40-90 psi for best results—hot water is not suitable.
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