What Growing Zone Is North Charleston?

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

Latest SC growing zone map

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

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Latest SC 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 North Charleston is in growing zone 9a this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as 20 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for North Charleston'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 North Charleston 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 North Charleston, SC.

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

North Charleston's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 9a

Zip Codes: 29420, 29456, 29485, 29404, 29405, 29406, 29418, 29416, 29419, 29423

Longitude: -80.0722

Latitude: 32.9067

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): 20 to 25

Metal Seed Storage Box

Organized storage solution for your seed collection.

Rustic Iron Garden Trellis

Sturdy trellis for supporting climbing plants and vines.

Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

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

Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket

Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.

Self Watering Plant Pots

Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.

Map of the North Charleston Area

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Seed Starting Trays

Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.

Steel Hori Hori Weeding Knife

Versatile Japanese-style gardening knife for weeding and planting.

Cluck Around Sign

Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.

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.

Large Greenhouse Kit

Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.

Rustic Iron Garden Trellis

Sturdy trellis for supporting climbing plants and vines.

Stainless Steel Garden Tool Set

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

Brass Decorative Faucet Handle

Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.

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