What Growing Zone Is Ames?
Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Ames a growing zone designation of 5b. Sometimes also called the planting or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in Ames's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Ames's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.
Latest IA growing zone mapIf you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Ames area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Ames, IA.
Cluck Around Sign
Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.
Reusable Grow Bags
Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.
Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Metal Seed Storage Box
Organized storage solution for your seed collection.
Worm Composting Kit
Complete kit for starting your own worm composting system.
Latest IA growing zone mapThe growing zone is a measure of the lowest temperature that a plant can survive based on average lowest year temperatures, helping you to decide what plants would grow best in your particular climate. Since Ames is in growing zone 5b this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as -15 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Ames's climate should be chosen with this in mind, or plants should be moved inside to keep their core temperature in the right range if necessary.
Some zones may have been changed by the USDA as of 2023. To see if the Ames area has been affected, refer to this map of half zone changes from the 2012 version of the USDA zones to the 2023 version.
The updated map shows that over half of the Southeast has warmed by about half a zone. For gardeners, that means you can now grow plants that tolerate a bit more heat and less frost than before. The tan areas reflect this shift. Meanwhile, the white areas had slight temperature changes, but not enough to move them into a new zone. In the Western U.S., a few spots shifted cooler. That’s not due to a colder climate, but because the new map uses a larger dataset, giving a more accurate picture of local conditions. It's important to keep track of these changes when planning your garden!
Hardiness Zone FAQ
Have questions about hardiness zones and what they mean for your garden? Check out our FAQ below for quick answers to common questions about USDA hardiness zones and how they affect plant selection in Ames, IA.
The USDA hardiness zone is 5b for Ames. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.
Ames's Growing Zone Details
USDA Growing Zone: 5b
Longitude: -93.6217
Latitude: 42.0256
Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): -15 to -10
Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Self Watering Plant Pots
Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.
Brass Watering Can
Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.
Raised Garden Planter
Elevated planter for easy access and better drainage.
Reusable Grow Bags
Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.
Map of the Ames Area
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Raised Garden Planter
Elevated planter for easy access and better drainage.
Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Seed Starting Trays
Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.
Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign
Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.
Metal Seed Storage Box
Organized storage solution for your seed collection.
Plants For Other States
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Metal Arbor Trellis
Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.
Raised Garden Bed Kit
Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.
Wooden Chicken Coop
Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.
Seed Starting Trays
Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.
Brass Watering Can
Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.
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