What is a Climate Zone
Definition: An area with a prevailing climate that distinguishes it from other areas due to temperature, rainfall, etc.

What it really boils down to, for both the USDA and Sunset zones, is minimum temperature. A plant is often 'defined' by what minimum temperature it has been observed to withstand before it croaks. For the most part, following your zone designation is your best bet.

We've tried to make finding your climate zone as easy as possible. For the Western U.S., Sunset has narrowed the broad definition that the USDA uses. We recommend visiting Sunset's web site to determine where your zone is. Your USDA zone can be determined by using our ZIP code search above.

If you decide to try a plant that does not land in your USDA or Sunset zone, we recommend visiting www.cloudforest.com and reading their article on micro-climates. A yard has many micro-climates based on numerous geological and meteorological factors. A fine read for those of you who enjoy growing a broad range of plants and putting your skills to the test.