New Hampshire Planting Zones

New Hampshire has a humid continental climate and big temperature variations seasonally and even daily. For the most part, precipitation is fairly consistent and even throughout the year in most planting zones. Winters are cold, snowy and long, while summers are short and relatively cool but humid. The southeastern region sees a bit milder winter months due to the Atlantic Ocean, versus the interior and northern areas, which tend to see much colder temperatures and an abundance of snow. The average annual snowfall ranges anywhere from 60 to 100 inches, with winter temperatures averaging in the low 20s. Average summer temperatures are typically in the mid 60s. 

Frost dates are one way the U.S. hardiness zone map is determined. Different plants and flowers grow better in certain areas based on the weather patterns and factors that go into designating growing zones. Knowing what New Hampshire planting zone you are in will be helpful when planning a garden. New Hampshire growing zones range from 3b to 6a. As a general rule, it is fine to plant anything in the zone it will be growing or lower. This will ensure that a plant can survive the winter conditions of an area. Planting anything rated for a higher zone increases the chance of a plant struggling to survive cold winters. Find your growing zone with Gilmour’s Interactive Planting Zone Map.

New Hampshire enjoys a wide range of plants and vegetables that do well across the state. Whether growing a vegetable garden or flower garden, New Hampshire has hundreds of options out there. Basil, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, parsnips, onions, peas and peppers, among many other veggies will flourish in New Hampshire growing zones. If looking for plants and flowers that thrive in the area, consider royal azaleas, hobblebush, rhododendrons, climbing hydrangea and star magnolia.