Dallas, Texas, experiences a climate that necessitates understanding the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Plant Hardiness Zone Map. This map divides North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures. These zones assist gardeners and growers in determining which plants are most likely to thrive in a specific location. For example, a plant rated for zones 7-10 should survive the typical winter conditions experienced in a location within those zones.
Knowledge of the appropriate zone is crucial for successful gardening and landscaping in the Dallas area. Selecting plants suitable for the area helps ensure their survival and reduces the need for excessive intervention, such as winter protection. Historically, this information has been essential for agricultural planning and horticultural practices, preventing costly losses due to unsuitable plant selection.