What Growing Zone Is Hillsborough?

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Hillsborough a growing zone designation of 8a. Sometimes also called the planting or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in Hillsborough's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Hillsborough's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.

Latest NC growing zone map

If you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Hillsborough area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Hillsborough, NC.

Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

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Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

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Steel Hori Hori Weeding Knife

Versatile Japanese-style gardening knife for weeding and planting.

Naughty Garden Gnome Statue

Know someone with a naughty sense of humor? This gnome statue is sure to get some laughs.

Latest NC growing zone map

The 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 Hillsborough is in growing zone 8a this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Hillsborough'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 Hillsborough 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!

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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 Hillsborough, NC.

The USDA hardiness zone is 8a for Hillsborough. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.

Hillsborough's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 8a

Zip Codes:

27278

Longitude: -79.0991

Latitude: 36.0679

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): 10 to 15

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.

Brass Watering Can

Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.

Are You Pooping? Sign

Funny cow sign, great for gardeners and farmers.

Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

High-capacity watering can with comfortable grip and precise spout.

Map of the Hillsborough Area

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Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

Grow fresh herbs and vegetables year-round with this indoor hydroponic garden system.

Heavy Duty Garden Utility Wagon

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Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

High-capacity watering can with comfortable grip and precise spout.

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Plants For Other States

Looking for the best plants in a different area of the United States? Click on a button below to find plants that are ideal for that state's temperatures.