A USDA zone map will ensure proper direction when growing plants or vegetables.
When reading a USDA zone map, it will not only tell you if a plant is suitable for growth in your area, but it can further break down which area is best or worst for growing within your state. You can also type in your zip code or list your state to get a sense of the average temperate in your local area.
Match that temperature to whichever temperature your plant needs to thrive. A USDA zone map is not a final authority, and just because the temperatures do not match when it comes to growing plants does not mean you have to rule out growing the plants you want. It merely says that you may have to pay more attention to a plant if it grows in a more hostile zone.
Those plants not compatible with a USDA zone map in certain areas can also be grown indoors. You also might get away with growing incompatible plants during more sunny seasons if you live in the north, but your plant will require lots of sunshine.
If you live in an area that gets plenty of rain and snow, then you might want to consider using artificial light for plants that require direct sunshine. Placing your plants by window sills is also a great way to grow plants indoors that are not necessarily compatible with a USDA zone map.
First-time gardeners and those planning to grow a specific type of fruit or veggie should use a USDA zone map to guide them in the right direction. It is a pretty detailed map; southern areas are the most fertile, while far northern and northeast areas will have a more challenging time supporting many plants.
As much as you want to grow certain plants, sometimes the climate and terrain in your area will not support your desired plants. Suppose you want to grow many plants but cannot because of where you live, then you may want to consider moving to a warmer climate where you can grow as many thriving plants as you want.
There are also rare plants that are more adaptable to colder weather. Apple trees, carrots, and cucumbers are more suited to colder weather, so it is possible to grow fruits and veggies in colder climates. Find out which plants are more suited to colder climates. They do exist, and all it takes is a little research.
A USDA zone map will provide an overall vision of the types of plants that you can support in your local area.
If you enjoy gardening but are frustrated because your local area cannot support the plants you want to grow, use the USDA zone map system to your advantage and find creative ways to get around those zoning codes. Growing cactus plants in places like Alaska is possible, but it takes some planning and strategy.
