What Growing Zone Is Polk?

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Polk 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 Polk's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Polk'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 Polk area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Polk, NE.

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Cluck Around Sign

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Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

Grow fresh herbs and vegetables year-round with this indoor hydroponic garden system.

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

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

Polk's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 5b

Zip Codes: 68654

Longitude: -97.7834

Latitude: 41.0755

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

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Large Greenhouse Kit

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Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.

Map of the Polk Area

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Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.

Steel Hori Hori Weeding Knife

Versatile Japanese-style gardening knife for weeding and planting.

Wooden Chicken Coop

Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.

Reusable Grow Bags

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

Large Greenhouse Kit

Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.

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.

Raised Garden Bed Kit

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

Brass Decorative Faucet Handle

Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.

Reusable Grow Bags

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

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Sturdy trellis for supporting climbing plants and vines.

Self Watering Plant Pots

Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.

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