About the Illinois Hardiness Planting Zone
Knowing your Illinois planting zone will make gardening much easier for you. In order to learn more about Illinois growing zones, it’s important to view the USDA plant hardiness zones map. This not only provides hardiness zones for all states but will also tell you what garden zone Illinois is. The map provided here is for the Illinois hardiness planting zone, which should help determine the most ideal plants for your area. Illinois growing zones range from zones 5 to 7. By looking at the map above and locating the approximate area in which you live, you will be able to find your Illinois hardiness planting zone. Simply compare the color-coded zones for your area with those of the legend on the right of the map. Due to climate changes and increasingly warmer temperatures, this map of Illinois growing zones is based on the revised USDA planting zones made in 2012. It is important to understand your Illinois hardiness planting zones in order to choose the most suitable plants for your area. For areas bordering separate zones, choosing plants that tolerate cooler conditions (such as a zone lower) will oftentimes help ensure their winter survival, as those that are less hardy will require additional protection. Most local nurseries provide plants that are suitable for Illinois growing zones. Keep in mind that only reputable nurseries specialize in selling landscaping plants appropriate for your area’s hardiness zone and will have these clearly marked as such. In addition to these plants, non-hardy species may also be available. These, too, should be clearly marked.
