What Growing Zone Is Columbus?

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

Latest NE growing zone map

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

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Latest NE 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 Columbus is in growing zone 5b this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as -15 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Columbus'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 Columbus 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 2023

Half 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!

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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 Columbus, NE.

The USDA hardiness zone is 5b for Columbus. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.

Columbus's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 5b

Zip Codes: 68601, 68602

Longitude: -97.3565

Latitude: 41.4366

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): -15 to -10

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Map of the Columbus Area

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Raised Garden Bed Kit

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

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Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.

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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.

Worm Composting Kit

Complete kit for starting your own worm composting system.

Reusable Grow Bags

Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.

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Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.

Raised Garden Bed Kit

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

Metal Arbor Trellis

Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.

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