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.

A new Plant Hardiness Zone Map released by the federal government Wednesday shows that temperatures across the country are getting warmer and could affect gardens and crops. The map is designed to ...

Question: I know the USDA recently issued a new Hardiness Zone map. I live in Lehigh Acres, which is a little colder than most of Lee County. With the changes, I’m wondering if I can consider ...

Farmers aren’t the only ones who start the day by checking the weather report. Backyard gardeners do it, too. We like to be warned if frosts or polar vortexes are headed our way. If all I grew were ...