Texas Planting Zones

Due to its massive size and geographical differences, Texas has a widely varying climate and planting zones. The western region is arid desert and the eastern parts are subtropical and humid. There are multiple regions with extreme differences in climates. The panhandle of the state is colder than the northern region, and the Gulf Coast has relatively mild winters. Tornadoes are common throughout the state. There are an average of nearly 140 tornadoes each year. Tropical cyclones are also a normal occurrence, coming from the Pacific Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico. Texas has seen devastating flooding from stalled fronts or tropical cyclones. Precipitation ranges vary too – the western side of the state averages just about 8.7 inches of rainfall each year, while some areas in southeast region can average as much as 64 inches. Snowfall occurs multiple times a year in the Panhandle region and mountains in West Texas. Other areas see very little or no snow. Summer temperatures average anywhere from the 80s to 100 degrees, with the majority of the state seeing highs in the 90s throughout the summer. 

It’s important to know what planting zone you are in before planting a garden. Gilmour’s Interactive Planting Zone Map makes it simple to find your zone and figure out which plants are most likely to survive in your region. Texas growing zones span 6b to 10a. If you are unsure what Texas planting zone you are in, or if you don’t know what plants will do best in your zone, a local nursery can help. Remember that it is fine to plant lower than your zone, but not higher. If you live in zone 6b, any plants rated zone 1 through 6 should be fine once winter comes. 

There are a number of flowers and plants that do very well in Texas. Asparagus, beets, cabbage, swiss chard, carrots and more are all vegetables that thrive in the state. And despite the heat across much of the region, there are multiple plants and flowers that grow, too. Zinnias, lantana, firebush, hibiscus, salvia, lacy oak and many others will flourish.