What does "hardiness zone" indicate?

Hardiness zone refers to the specific climate conditions in which plants can survive and thrive, making the indication of these zones crucial for gardeners and landscapers. Each zone is defined by the average minimum temperatures that can be expected in that area, helping to determine which plants are likely to survive the winter in that region.

Choosing plants that are suited to the appropriate hardiness zone increases the likelihood that they will endure seasonal temperature variations, which is essential for successful landscaping. Therefore, the concept of hardiness zone is focused primarily on temperature and climate rather than other factors like soil type, sunlight, or irrigation needs, although these factors also contribute to overall plant health and growth.