USDA Hardiness Zones Across the U.S. - Spotlight on New Hampshire!
- Marcus Bergin
- Aug 13, 2024
- 3 min read
Discover Your USDA Hardiness Zone!
Are you ready to create a beautiful and thriving garden in New Hampshire? Understanding your USDA Hardiness Zone is crucial for selecting plants that can endure the state’s varied climate, from the White Mountains to the Seacoast. Let’s explore the zones across New Hampshire and find the best shade-tolerant plants for your garden!

New Hampshire: Zones 3-5
New Hampshire’s climate ranges from cold, snowy winters in the north to milder conditions in the southern parts of the state. Here’s a closer look at the zones in New Hampshire and some shade-tolerant plants that will thrive in each:
Zone 3:
Found in the northernmost parts of New Hampshire, including areas like the White Mountains, where winter temperatures can drop to -40 to -30°F. These hardy, shade-tolerant plants are perfect for the coldest regions:
Hellebores (Helleborus spp.): Known for blooming in late winter or early spring, Hellebores add early color to shaded areas, thriving even in the coldest conditions.
Ferns: Varieties like Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.) and Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) bring lush greenery to shady spots, even in the harsh winters of Zone 3.
Bergenia (Bergenia cordifolia): A tough perennial with bold, leathery leaves and pink flowers that bloom in early spring, Bergenia thrives in the cool, shaded areas of Zone 3.
Zone 4:
Covers much of central and western New Hampshire, including areas like Concord and the Lakes Region, with winter temperatures ranging from -30 to -20°F. This zone is ideal for a variety of shade-tolerant plants:
Hostas (Hosta spp.): A staple in shade gardens, Hostas offer lush foliage in a variety of colors and patterns, thriving in the cool, shaded areas of Zone 4.
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis): Known for its delicate, heart-shaped flowers, Bleeding Heart adds charm to shady garden spots in spring and early summer.
Astilbe (Astilbe spp.): With its feathery plumes of pink, white, or red flowers, Astilbe brightens up shaded gardens and prefers the cooler conditions of Zone 4.
Zone 5:
Found in the southern parts of New Hampshire, including areas like Nashua and Portsmouth, where winter temperatures range from -20 to -10°F. This slightly milder zone supports a wide variety of shade-tolerant plants:
Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.): Known for their large, showy blooms, Rhododendrons thrive in the acidic, shaded soils typical of this zone.
Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.): With their large, colorful blooms, Hydrangeas add a splash of color to shaded garden areas in Zone 5.
Ferns: Varieties like Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) and Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) add texture and lush greenery to shaded spots.
Why It Matters:
Optimal Plant Selection: Choosing plants suited to your specific zone ensures they will thrive and contribute to a healthy, beautiful garden.
Effective Garden Planning: Understanding your zone helps you plan your planting schedule, allowing you to take full advantage of New Hampshire’s growing season.
Sustainable Gardening: By selecting plants that naturally thrive in your zone’s conditions, you reduce the need for extra water, fertilizers, and pesticides, promoting a more eco-friendly garden.
Get Involved: Share Your Gardening Experience
We want to hear from you! Whether you’re gardening in the cold mountains of Zone 3 or the milder climates of Zone 5, your experiences and tips can inspire and guide others.
Join the Conversation:
Comment Below: Share your gardening successes, challenges, and questions with fellow New Hampshire gardeners.
Join Our Facebook Group: Connect with a community of shade gardening enthusiasts by joining our Shade Gardening Group on Facebook. It’s a great place to exchange ideas, find inspiration, and support your gardening journey.
Let’s grow together, New Hampshire! 🌻
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