Growing flowers based on your USDA zone is vital to the success of your garden. Find out why growing zones matter and discover tips for finding the best flowers to grow in your garden.
Flower Gardens by USDA Zones
Why USDA Zones Matter
Decades ago, the United States Department of Agriculture created a useful tool to equip farmers and gardeners throughout the country. On the Plant Hardiness Zone Map, our country’s 30-year average minimum temperatures are drawn out and listed. This map is the launching point for growers – helping them know which plants are likely to survive in their area.
For a closer look at your zone, visit the United States Department of Agriculture’s interactive map.
Choosing Plants for Each Zone
After you find out your plant hardiness zone, the best thing you can do next is to chat with an experienced local gardener, the local extension office, or someone at the nearest plant nursery/greenhouse. Locals will guide you toward plants that will grow well in your area. When you go to the nursery, you should be able to find plants that are known to be hardy in your region.
To give you a bit of a head start, here are some ideas for perennials and annuals that can grow in most of the zones throughout the United States.
Popular Annual and Perennial Flowers for Zones 3-9
Annuals
- Zinnia
- Lantana (perennial in zone 9)
- Petunia (perennial in zone 9)
- Marigold
- Cosmos
- Celosia
- Begonia (perennial in zone 9)
- Impatiens
- Coleus
- Snapdragon
- Pansy
- Lisianthus
- Sunflower
- Strawflower
Perennials
- Coneflower
- Daylily
- Baptisia
- Salvia
- Lavender (zones 5-9)
- Bee Balm
- Sedum
- Phlox
- Bleeding Heart
- Hydrangea
- Peony
- Milkweed
- Black-Eyed Susan
- Yarrow
Happy planting! Share with us on socials what you’re growing this year.
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References
- Burpee.com
- Gurneys.com
- Johnnyseeds.com
- Gardendesign.com