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USDA Hardiness Zones

Tip description

Planting zones help you select plants that are right for your garden. There are two systems, USDA and Sunset Western Garden.

USDA divides the US into hardiness zones based on average high and low temperatures. Most of Santa Clara County is in zones 9b and 10a.

Sunset makes many finer distinctions, taking into consideration rainfall patterns, ocean influence, and more. In the Sunset system, Santa Clara County is largely zones 15 or 16 with some zone 7 for areas with more extreme highs and lows. Sunset zone maps: Central and South County and North County.

For gardening success, choose plants known to thrive in your zone.

Months applicable

Any month