In Michigan, our hardiness zones range from 4a in the west of the upper peninsula and north of the lower peninsula, to 6b in the southeast and along the shore of Lake Michigan. Based on the 1990 USDA Hardiness Zone Map, this interactive version covers the state of Michigan, spanning from USDA Zone 3a to USDA Zone 6b. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map shows standard growing zones. Use the map to determine which plants are most likely to thrive in your region.
Some plants are able to survive outside their hardiness zone, but can only survive for one growing season and are therefore considered annual. Within each growing zone there are microclimates, which exist due to landscape characteristics, such as hills or valleys or harsh landscape elements, including buildings, concrete, etc. USDA plant hardiness zones are the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which plants have the most likely to thrive in any given location. Understanding what growing area you live in is a huge help when selecting flowers, trees, shrubs, or perennial food crops for your landscape and garden areas.
Learn everything you need to know about drought-tolerant landscaping, including the best type of plants.
