Hardiness zones provide useful information for gardeners and farmers with relatively short growing seasons or extreme winters, and that includes much of Canada.
In the absence of Canadian hardiness maps, it is challenging to determine which plants have the ability to deal with the harsh winters in your specific region.
The good news is that a surprisingly high number of plants can survive within Canada growing zones, even in the northern part of the country. However, many can’t survive outside of their designated zone. Read on to learn more about the different hardiness zones in Canada.
Hardiness Zones in Canada
The first hardiness zone map for North America was released by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1960. The map was a good starting point; however, it was limited to the minimum winter temperatures. Since that period, the map has evolved significantly.
In 1967, Canadian scientists created a hardiness map of Canada. The Canadian map has undergone continuous evolution, similar to the USDA map. The most recent Canada planting zones map was published in 2012.
The current Canadian hardiness map takes into account a variety of factors, including maximum temperatures, maximum wind speed, summer rainfall, winter snow cover, and other relevant data. Hardiness zones in Canada, similar to the USDA map, are further subdivided into subzones, such as 2a and 2b or 6a and 6b, which further refines the information.
Canada Growing Zones
Click here for a full resolution plant Hardiness Zones map for Canada
The growing zones in Canada are comprised of nine zones, which range from 0 (extremely severe weather) to zone 8, which encompasses specific regions along the west coast of British Columbia.
Even though the zones are as precise as possible, it is crucial to take into account the microclimates that may exist in each region, including your own garden.
The distinction, despite its diminutive size, can determine the success or failure of an entire garden or a single plant. Factors that contribute to microclimates include the presence of concrete, asphalt, or brick, slopes, vegetation, soil type, or structures, as well as adjacent bodies of water.
Sign up to get our FREE weekly emails
Gardening guides, tips, & videos delivered right to your inbox!
