What Growing Zone Is Raleigh?

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Raleigh 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 Raleigh's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Raleigh's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.

map of growing zone 9aLatest FL growing zone map

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

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map of growing zone 9aLatest FL 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 Raleigh is in growing zone 9a this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Raleigh'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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, FL.

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

Raleigh's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 9a

Zip Codes: 32696

Longitude: -82.468

Latitude: 29.4479

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): 20 to 25

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Large Greenhouse Kit

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Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

High-capacity watering can with comfortable grip and precise spout.

Map of the Raleigh Area

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Brass Watering Can

Brass Watering Can

Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.
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Self Watering Plant Pots

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Raised Garden Bed Kit

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Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.
Metal Arbor Trellis

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Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.

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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Worm Composting Kit

Worm Composting Kit

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

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Complete garden tool set with heavy-duty stainless steel tools for all your gardening needs.
Small Greenhouse Kit

Small Greenhouse Kit

Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Shiitake Mushroom Kit

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Grow your own delicious shiitake mushrooms at home.
Seed Starting Trays

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Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.

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