Gemma is an experienced freelance writer who has spent the last five years focusing on expert-driven content relating to homes and gardens. She has contributed to several lifestyle publications ...

Sometimes called “growing zones” or “gardening zones,” hardiness zones refer to a map developed by the USDA that separates the United States into regions based on the average low winter temperatures.

WASHINGTON -- Global warming is hitting not just home, but garden. The color-coded map of planting zones often seen on the back of seed packets is being updated by the government, illustrating a ...