South Carolina Planting Zones

South Carolina’s mild winters and hot summers are due to its humid subtropical climate. However, the upstate areas with higher elevations have less of the traditional characteristics of the climate than the Atlantic coast side does. Afternoon thunderstorms and tropical cyclones result from the extreme heat and humidity during the summer months and into the fall. Summer temperatures range from mid 80s to low 90s during the day, with low to mid 70s on the coast and mid 60s to mid 70s during the night. Strong winds and hail are normal during summer storms. Anywhere between 40 and 80 inches of precipitation is average throughout the year. Tornadoes are common in the spring and have a secondary additional peak heading into winter. The coast has milder winters, and all regions rarely see snow. 

Before planning a garden, it is important to determine the planting zone in an area. Gilmour’s Interactive Planting Zone Map makes it easy to find your zone so you can choose plants that are most appropriate for your region. South Carolina growing zones fall between 7a and 9a, depending on location. Local nurseries can help determine the plants that will do best in whichever South Carolina planting zone you are in. They are a great place to start, as they will likely only carry the varieties that thrive in a specific area. This can help ensure a garden does well. 

South Carolina has numerous plants, flowers and vegetables that thrive across the state. Plant from a large range of vegetables for a full garden that produces all season long. Choose from acorn squash, beets, cantaloupe, carrots, broccoli, chard, lettuce, pumpkins or more. Plants and flowers that love the area and will do well include bee balm, columbine, coneflower, blue iris, milkweed, verbena, false indigo, black-eyed Susans and many more.