Plant hardiness zones delineate geographic areas based on average minimum winter temperatures. These zones provide a guide for gardeners and growers to determine which plants are most likely to thrive in a specific location. For instance, a plant rated for zone 6 can generally withstand the average minimum winter temperature of that zone.
Understanding the suitability of plants to a particular locale yields significant benefits, including reduced plant loss, minimized resource expenditure on unsuitable species, and enhanced overall landscape health. Historically, the establishment of these zones enabled nurseries and agricultural extension services to offer more targeted and effective advice to gardeners and farmers. This, in turn, led to greater horticultural success and efficiency.
