What Growing Zone Is University of California-Merced?

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given University of California-Merced a growing zone designation of 9a. Sometimes also called the planting or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in University of California-Merced's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used University of California-Merced's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.

map of growing zone 9a (Northern California)map of growing zone 9aLatest CA growing zone map

If you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the University of California-Merced area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in University of California-Merced, CA.

Metal Arbor Trellis

Metal Arbor Trellis

Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.
Worm Composting Kit

Worm Composting Kit

Complete kit for starting your own worm composting system.
Stainless Steel Garden Tool Set

Stainless Steel Garden Tool Set

Complete garden tool set with heavy-duty stainless steel tools for all your gardening needs.
Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

High-capacity watering can with comfortable grip and precise spout.
Brass Decorative Faucet Handle

Brass Decorative Faucet Handle

Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.
map of growing zone 9a (Northern California)map of growing zone 9aLatest CA growing zone map

The growing zone is a measure of the lowest temperature that a plant can survive based on average lowest year temperatures, helping you to decide what plants would grow best in your particular climate. Since University of California-Merced is in growing zone 9a this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for University of California-Merced's climate should be chosen with this in mind, or plants should be moved inside to keep their core temperature in the right range if necessary.

USDA growing zone map of the United States

Some zones may have been changed by the USDA as of 2023. To see if the University of California-Merced area has been affected, refer to this map of half zone changes from the 2012 version of the USDA zones to the 2023 version.

map of usda hardiness zone changes from 2012 to 2023Half zone changes from 2012 to 2023

The updated map shows that over half of the Southeast has warmed by about half a zone. For gardeners, that means you can now grow plants that tolerate a bit more heat and less frost than before. The tan areas reflect this shift. Meanwhile, the white areas had slight temperature changes, but not enough to move them into a new zone. In the Western U.S., a few spots shifted cooler. That’s not due to a colder climate, but because the new map uses a larger dataset, giving a more accurate picture of local conditions. It's important to keep track of these changes when planning your garden!

Hardiness Zone FAQ

Have questions about hardiness zones and what they mean for your garden? Check out our FAQ below for quick answers to common questions about USDA hardiness zones and how they affect plant selection in University of California-Merced, CA.

The USDA hardiness zone is 9a for University of California-Merced. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.

University of California-Merced's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 9a

Zip Codes: 95340

Longitude: -120.4192

Latitude: 37.3666

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): 20 to 25

Raised Garden Planter

Raised Garden Planter

Elevated planter for easy access and better drainage.
Reusable Grow Bags

Reusable Grow Bags

Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.
Raised Garden Bed Kit

Raised Garden Bed Kit

Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.
Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.
Cluck Around Sign

Cluck Around Sign

Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.

Map of the University of California-Merced Area

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Metal Seed Storage Box

Metal Seed Storage Box

Organized storage solution for your seed collection.
Large Greenhouse Kit

Large Greenhouse Kit

Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.
Cluck Around Sign

Cluck Around Sign

Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.
Steel Hori Hori Weeding Knife

Steel Hori Hori Weeding Knife

Versatile Japanese-style gardening knife for weeding and planting.
Brass Watering Can

Brass Watering Can

Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.

Plants For Other States

Looking for the best plants in a different area of the United States? Click on a button below to find plants that are ideal for that state's temperatures.

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Wooden Chicken Coop

Wooden Chicken Coop

Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.
Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.
Shiitake Mushroom Kit

Shiitake Mushroom Kit

Grow your own delicious shiitake mushrooms at home.
Self Watering Plant Pots

Self Watering Plant Pots

Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.
Rustic Iron Garden Trellis

Rustic Iron Garden Trellis

Sturdy trellis for supporting climbing plants and vines.

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