USDA Hardiness
Zone Map 2012
This new map was made public in late January 2012, Our lookup feature now uses the new hardiness zone information. In our initial review of this restructure, your hardiness zone may have shifted slightly enabling you to over winter plants not otherwise hardy in your area previously. When experimenting with plants at or above your hardiness zone, we suggest planting in an area with southern exposure and against the house or adding a little extra mulch in case harsher winters return.
When planning a garden, consider your local climate and the established "hardiness rating" of various plants you have in mind. Some plants cannot handle severe winters; others wither in heat; still others, such as many spring-flowering bulbs, need a cold period to stimulate growth cycles. Look at plant labels, bulb packaging, catalogues, and reference books for the hardiness ratings of individual plants.
Plant spring-flowering bulbs in your area 6 weeks before the ground freezes.
Enter your zip code to determine your hardiness zone.