What Growing Zone Is Seneca?
Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Seneca a growing zone designation of 5b. Sometimes also called the planting or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in Seneca's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Seneca's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.
Latest IL growing zone mapIf you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Seneca area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Seneca, IL.
Brass Decorative Faucet Handle
Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.
Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Large Greenhouse Kit
Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.
Worm Composting Kit
Complete kit for starting your own worm composting system.
Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign
Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.
Latest IL growing zone mapThe 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 Seneca is in growing zone 5b this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as -15 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Seneca'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.
Some zones may have been changed by the USDA as of 2023. To see if the Seneca area has been affected, refer to this map of half zone changes from the 2012 version of the USDA zones to the 2023 version.
Half zone changes from 2012 to 2023The 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 Seneca, IL.
The USDA hardiness zone is 5b for Seneca. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.
Seneca's Growing Zone Details
USDA Growing Zone: 5b
Longitude: -88.5888
Latitude: 41.3209
Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): -15 to -10
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Stainless Steel Garden Tool Set
Complete garden tool set with heavy-duty stainless steel tools for all your gardening needs.
Raised Garden Bed Kit
Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.
Worm Composting Kit
Complete kit for starting your own worm composting system.
Metal Arbor Trellis
Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.
Map of the Seneca Area
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Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
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Grow your own delicious shiitake mushrooms at home.
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Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.
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Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.
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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Raised Garden Bed Kit
Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.
Worm Composting Kit
Complete kit for starting your own worm composting system.
Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign
Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.
Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Rustic Iron Garden Trellis
Sturdy trellis for supporting climbing plants and vines.
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