What Growing Zone Is Chico?

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

map of growing zone 9b (Northern California)map of growing zone 9bLatest CA growing zone map

If you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Chico area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Chico, CA.

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map of growing zone 9b (Northern California)map of growing zone 9bLatest 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 Chico is in growing zone 9b this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as 25 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Chico'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 Chico 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 Chico, CA.

The USDA hardiness zone is 9b for Chico. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.

Chico's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 9b

Zip Codes: 95973, 95926, 95928, 95929, 95927, 95976

Longitude: -121.8161

Latitude: 39.7578

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): 25 to 30

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Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.

Map of the Chico Area

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Wooden Chicken Coop

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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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Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

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High-capacity watering can with comfortable grip and precise spout.
Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

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Self Watering Plant Pots

Self Watering Plant Pots

Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.

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