Plant hardiness zones are really important for picking the right plants for your garden. Here are some key factors that affect these zones:

• Temperature: Each zone is based on how cold it usually gets in winter. The lower the zone number, the colder it is.
• Elevation: If you live at a higher place, like on a hill, it can be cooler.
• Microclimates: Some areas have special conditions. For example, places near water or protected by buildings can change how plants grow.

Knowing your hardiness zone can really change what you decide to plant.

For example, if you live in a warmer zone, you can try some more exotic plants. But if you’re in a cooler zone, you’ll need tougher plants to survive.

Gardening can be so much easier when you work with what nature gives you!