Zones 3 and 4
Very cold winters and a short growing season. Plant choice is driven by winter survival and by how quickly a plant can finish its cycle.
The zones
Hardiness zone groups
What each group of USDA hardiness zones means for planting and lawns.
Zones 5 and 6
Four distinct seasons with cold winters and a moderate growing season, which suits a wide range of perennials, trees and vegetables.
Zones 7 and 8
Mild winters with occasional cold snaps and a long growing season. The gardening year stretches into winter and starts early in spring.
Zones 9 through 11
Warm to hot climates with little or no hard freeze. Heat, sun and water supply set the rhythm of the garden rather than cold.
