The term refers to the plant hardiness designation assigned to a geographic area, indicating the average minimum winter temperature. This information is crucial for gardeners and landscapers to select plants that can survive the local climate. For instance, a plant rated for a specific hardiness range will generally thrive in areas where the lowest average winter temperature falls within that range.
Understanding the hardiness rating is vital for successful cultivation, preventing plant loss due to cold damage. Historical data and ongoing climate monitoring contribute to the determination of these designations, which may shift over time due to environmental changes. Utilizing this data provides a framework for making informed decisions about appropriate plant selection for a given region.
