ZonePlant

Reference

USDA hardiness zones

USDA hardiness zones group regions by average annual minimum temperature in 5°F increments. Each numbered zone is split into "a" (colder half) and "b" (warmer half). Zones are the most reliable starting point for deciding what perennials and woody plants will survive winter in your area.

Cold to hot

Cold

zones 1a to 4b

Subarctic and far-north zones. Hard winters, very short summers, only the toughest perennials and cold-hardy fruit varieties.

Cool temperate

zones 5a to 7b

The classic apple, pear, and stone-fruit belt. Cold winters meet long enough summers for most home orchard species.

Warm temperate

zones 8a to 10b

Mild winters, long growing seasons. Low chill hours mean variety selection becomes the limiting factor for tree fruit.

Subtropical

zones 11a to 13b

Frost-free or near frost-free year-round. Tropical fruit thrives; cold-requiring crops largely don't.