Climate change is forcing tweaks to a vital map for farmers and gardeners
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Warming temperatures are changing where and when different plant varieties can grow most successfully, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) map released this week.
Why it matters: The Plant Hardiness Zone Map is a kind of bible for farmers and gardeners, helping them understand which plants can thrive in their area — and when to plant them.
- The new zones are particularly significant for those already growing plants at the extreme edge of their suggested range.
How it works: The map divides the U.S. into 13 zones, each representing a range of 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Each zone is divided further into two five-degree half zones.
Zoom in: The new zones are based on the average annual extreme minimum winter temperature from 1991–2020.
- The previous map, released in 2012, was based on 1976–2005 data.
- "The annual extreme minimum temperature represents the coldest night of the year, which can be highly variable from year to year, depending on local weather patterns," per USDA.
The upshot: Areas in the Midwest and Great Plains warmed the most, shifting them into warmer half zones.
- And the Pacific Northwest's growing season may last longer than in years past.
Yes, but: Many factors influence whether a given plant grows successfully or not, including light, soil moisture, humidity and exposure to the elements.
- The USDA recommends consulting with local producers, nurseries or master gardeners for area-specific growing advice.
The bottom line: You don't need to start changing which plants you're growing — thriving plants will likely continue to grow successfully.
