USDA Michigan Hardiness Zones: 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b
Michigan, a northern U.S. state, is known for its relatively harsh winters. Michigan’s winters are frigid, snowy, and very windy. The summer months are warm, but the warmth is quickly replaced with clouds and cold. Because the Great Lakes surround Michigan, the lakes help regulate the slightly moist climate.
Even with the cold winters, Michigan is surprisingly the leading producer in the nation of several crops, including asparagus. Asparagus is a plant that can withstand colder temperatures. This is why many farmers and gardeners plant asparagus in their gardens.
Michigan has six planting zones. Those planting zones are 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, and 6b.
Michigan Planting Zone – A Quick Overview
- Michigan has six planting zones.
- If you live in or near Lansing, you live in the 5b planting zone.
- The plant hardiness zones of the northern part of the state, such as the Marquette area and Escanaba, vary greatly. The city of Marquette is considered planting zone 5b. But Marquette County is divided into four different planting zones.
- If you live in the surrounding area of Grand Rapids, you might live in planting zone 5b or 6a.
- You’ll find the 6a and some 6b planting zones along the coast of the lake.
Using the Michigan Growing Zones Map
Gardening is a relaxing hobby that anyone can enjoy. But, to make sure that you’re a relaxed and happy gardener, you need to pick the right plants for your garden. Before you choose which plants to plant, you should look at the USDA Plant Hardiness Map. This map will help you determine your planting zone, which will help you choose appropriate plants for your space.
The USDA Plant Hardiness Map, designed in 2012, classifies the United States into planting zones based on relative temperatures. Each planting zone is color-coded and labeled with a letter and a number. To determine the gardening zone of your area in Michigan, click on the state of Michigan.
You’ll notice the variety of colors and planting zones located in the state. Zoom in on your area to determine your specific planting zone. Enter your zip code and address in the search bar if you want a more precise reading. Entering your address will give you the most accurate planting zone for your area.
Explore Our Complete US Hardiness Zone Map
Thanks to the lake effects of the Great Lakes, Michigan’s relative temperate and climate varies depending on location. Because of this variation, Michigan is classified into six different planting zones. Each planting zone is slightly different based on the minimum temperatures of the area.
The planting zone of your garden space may also be slightly different than your surrounding area. This is because your garden’s micro-climate might be different. Many factors affect the micro-climate of your area.
If hills surround your garden, the temperature of your garden area may be higher or lower than the surrounding environment. Make sure you consider your garden’s micro-climate before choosing plants, too.
Michigan: The Planting Zones are Greatly Affected by the Great Lakes
Michigan’s summer growing season is relatively short. The growing season typically only lasts for about a hundred days. Some places in Michigan might experience a somewhat longer growing season. The year’s last frost can be anywhere from mid-April to the end of May. The last frost of the year determines when the growing season can begin.
Besides asparagus, many plants thrive in Michigan’s climate. Consider planting hardy greens such as mustards, spinach, or Swiss chard if you want to grow vegetables. Cabbage and cauliflower also do well in Michigan’s planning zones.
Eckert’s Greenhouse and Perennials, located in Sterling Heights, Michigan, suggests adding impatiens, marigolds, and cosmos to your garden for a burst of seasonal color. If you want to add trees to your landscape, think about planting maples, oaks, and beeches. These trees thrive in Michigan!
