The New USDA Hardiness Zone Map 2023: What This Means for You
Even if you’ve never seen a copy of the USDA hardiness map, you’ve likely comes across its zones mentioned on the backs of seed packets, on plant tags, and in plant guides on website like ours. More seasoned gardeners can use the information to help decide if a plant will thrive or survive in their garden, or if they should take a chance on a plant outside of their zone. What is the USDA hardiness map anyway? The USDA hardiness map—the official name is Plant Hardiness Zone Map—helps gardeners determine which perennial plants can survive in their climate. Zone 1 is the coldest zone, with an average annual minimum temperature of -60°F or below. What changed in the updated map? To use the 2023 USDA Hardiness Zone Map, simply find your area on the map by entering your zip code. Gardeners need to keep in mind that the map uses a single data point. This includes your soil composition, the amount of sunlight, and any microclimates produced by structures. What are the real world applications of the updated map? Photograph of Cape Cod garden by Justine Hand, from Secret Garden: At Home with Marnie on Cape Cod. Most of Massachusetts now falls into zones 6 or 7, rather than zone 5B or 5A—making winters more hospitable to certain perennials. You may be able to grow “new to you” flowers, fruits, vegetables, and other plants. Due to the long lifespan of most trees... ...knowing the trend for your specific location can help you pick a tree that may thrive over one that may not. Sugar maples do best in zones 4 through 8.