What Growing Zone Is Chesapeake?

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Chesapeake's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.

Latest VA growing zone map

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

Large Greenhouse Kit

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Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.

Brass Watering Can

Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.

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

USDA growing zone map of the United States

Some zones may have been changed by the USDA as of 2023. To see if the Chesapeake area has been affected, refer to this map of half zone changes from the 2012 version of the USDA zones to the 2023 version.

map of usda hardiness zone changes from 2012 to 2023

Half zone changes from 2012 to 2023

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 Chesapeake, VA.

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

Chesapeake's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 8a

Zip Codes: 23325, 23324, 23323, 23322, 23321, 23320, 23326, 23327, 23328

Longitude: -76.3023

Latitude: 36.6778

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): 10 to 15

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Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

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

Self Watering Plant Pots

Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.

Stainless Steel Garden Tool Set

Complete garden tool set with heavy-duty stainless steel tools for all your gardening needs.

Metal Seed Storage Box

Organized storage solution for your seed collection.

Map of the Chesapeake Area

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Large Greenhouse Kit

Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.

Self Watering Plant Pots

Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.

Stainless Steel Garden Tool Set

Complete garden tool set with heavy-duty stainless steel tools for all your gardening needs.

Seed Starting Trays

Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.

Raised Garden Bed Kit

Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.

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.

Deluxe Plastic Watering Can

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

Raised Garden Bed Kit

Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.

Cluck Around Sign

Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.

Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket

Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.

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