Know your Climate Zone

Climate or Hardiness Zones in the US range from 1 (coldest) to 13 (warmest).

  • They are based on climate conditions, including the average minimum winter temperature.

Knowing your climate or Hardiness Zone is a crucial practice for ensuring the success of your plants.

  • When selecting plants, refer to the hardiness zone information on the plant description or tag.
  • Choose plants rated for your zone – it helps determine which plants are most likely to thrive in your specific climate, and to ensure they can survive the winter temperatures.
  • Consider the specific needs of the plants, such as soil type, sunlight, and moisture, in addition to zone compatibility.

Find your zone on this map.

Zone Map

At TN Nursery, we sell plants for most zones, from 3 – 9.

Alaska

Zone 3 has long winters and short growing seasons. (Southern Alaska, northern North Dakota, northern Montana)

New England

Zones 4 and 5 have long winters and short growing seasons. (Northern and Central Midwest, parts of New England, parts of the Rockies.) Gardeners in these states typically start seeds indoors and transplant them after the last frost.

Smoky Mountains

Zones 6 and  7 have moderate winters and long growing seasons ( Mid-Atlantic states, southern Midwest, parts of the Pacific Northwest, and parts of the Southeast). Gardeners who live in this climate should mulch plants to protect roots in the winter and extend the growing season.

Texas

Zones 8 and 9 feature mild winters and long growing seasons. (Coastal areas of the Southeast, parts of the Pacific Northwest, Southern Texas, Florida, parts of California) If you live in these areas, pay attention to summer heat, which can stress plants; provide shade and water deeply.