Washington, DC Planting Zones
DC runs from zone 7b to zone 8a on the 2023 USDA map. Zone 8a is the most common, covering 85% of DC's ZIP codes.
Zones across DC
| Zone | Average coldest night | Share of DC ZIP codes |
|---|---|---|
| 7b | 5 to 10°F | 15% |
| 8a | 10 to 15°F | 85% |
Planting zone for Washington, DC
The row below uses the ZIP code at the center of DC, which spans more than one half-zone, so look up your own ZIP.
| City | Zone | Average coldest night |
|---|---|---|
| Washington | 8a | 10 to 15°F |
Source: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, 2023, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture; ZIP code table from the PRISM Group, Oregon State University (accessed Oct 2026). This list is our own summary, not the official USDA map. See how we calculate.
Frequently asked questions
What planting zone is Washington, DC?
Washington, DC spans zones 7b to 8a on the 2023 USDA map, and zone 8a is the most common. Look up your ZIP code for your exact zone.
More for Washington, DC: Washington, DC climate zones (insulation) · Last frost dates in Washington, DC · Frost line depth by state