A Brief History of US Garden Zones

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. Originally developed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), it aimed to help gardeners and growers determine which plants would thrive in specific geographic regions. The map divides the United States into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures. Over the years, it has undergone several updates and revisions to account for changing climate patterns and more accurate data. Today, it remains a valuable tool for gardeners and farmers, assisting them in selecting suitable plants for their respective zones and adapting to changing environmental conditions.