A Guide to USDA Plant Zones in Austin

Austin is unique. Our music, food, and culture. Unique for plants too; Greater Austin encompasses 3 Eco Regions and 2 climate zones – from Jarrell to San Marcos, and roughly Bastrop to Dripping Springs.  

Fortunately, this resource helps with climate zones.

The USDA Plant Zone map. 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map | USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. First used internally by the US Govt in 1927 and later shared with the public. There are 13 zones in the US (including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico). A Fahrenheit range of 10 degrees in average minimum temperature separates each range. Example: A label of Zone 7a means that a plant should be ok in temperatures of 0 to 5 degrees F. A Zone 11 label means that a plant will survive above 40F only.

The Greater Austin area spans 8a to 9a. Meaning that our average minimum temperatures are typically somewhere between 10 to 15F for 8a and 20 to 25F for 9a. Good retailers share signage on what zones a plant grows in. If not, staff should have access to the answer.

Knowing your minimum USDA zone rating is a must. But, if any of these apply treat plants as if more tender. Typically, at least a zone more tender.

  1. Plant is in a container
  2. Plants are exposed to a sudden temperature drop and/or an icy wind
  3. Plants have not yet experienced gradual cooling of night temperatures
  4. Plants are in more sun/shade than preferred
  5. Plant is consistently outside of preferred PH range/soil type
  6. A containerized plant is rootbound
  7. Plant has just been pruned or was pruned and is now showing new growth

Knowing your USDA Zone and following these guidelines will help keep your plants happy and healthy. And remember, if you have questions, ask Lenny the Leaf or our Leaf Landscape Supply staff!

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