A Gardener's Guide to the New USDA Hardiness Zone Map

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

I'm excited to share some important news that will certainly impact our gardening decisions. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has unveiled an updated plant hardiness zone map for the first time since 2012.

This new map, which divides the United States and its territories into 13 zones, is more accurate than previous versions and reflects changes in our climate.

What Changes Can We Expect?

The USDA Hardiness Zone Map is based on the average annual minimum temperatures recorded throughout North America over the last 30 years.

The zones are based on a 10-degree Fahrenheit difference, which helps determine what plants are likely to thrive in your region.

The new plant hardiness map is still split into 13 zones across the US and each zone is divided into two halves - 'A' and 'B'.

Here's the interesting part: compared to the old map, about half of the country has shifted into a warmer half zone in the new map, while the other half stays the same.

This shift indicates that those areas have experienced a temperature increase somewhere between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

But here's something to note - even though some places have seen up to a 5-degree increase, they're not necessarily moving into a new half zone. The USDA pointed this out, so it's something we need to keep in mind.

Want to take a peek at the new map? Here is the updated USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

How Will This Impact Our Gardens?

This shift in zones could potentially influence when and what we choose to plant in our gardens.

If your area has shifted into a warmer zone, you may find that plants previously too delicate for your climate can now thrive. Conversely, plants that needed a cooler environment might struggle more.

Understanding your new zone will help you make informed choices about which plants will succeed in your garden.

You'll be able to adjust your planting schedules, select suitable plant varieties, and take preventative measures against potential pests or diseases that might become more prevalent with the changing climate.

How to Use the Map

To identify your zone, use the interactive map on the USDA website and enter your zip code and it will give you your zone and corresponding temperature ranges.

Now you can use it as a guide for plant selection. Keep in mind that microclimates, which are small areas within a larger zone that may have slightly different weather patterns, can also affect what plants will grow well in your garden.

Embrace the Change

This updated map might mean rethinking our gardens, but it also offers a chance to experiment with new plants and techniques.

Did your zone change at all? If it did are you thinking of trying some new plants this year?

Let me know in the comments.

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