Georgia Planting Zones

Georgia's diverse landscape, from the misty Blue Ridge Mountains to the sun-drenched coastal plains, offers a horticultural paradise spanning 57,906 square miles. 

The state's unique geography creates a remarkable tapestry of growing conditions, encompassing seven distinct USDA planting zones: 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, and 9b. 

This exceptional range allows Georgian gardeners to cultivate an impressive array of plants, from crisp apples in the north to juicy citrus fruits in the south.

In this article, you will learn: 

Whether you're tending a rooftop garden in bustling Atlanta or managing a sprawling peach orchard in Fort Valley, understanding Georgia's varied climate is crucial for gardening success. 

The state's rich agricultural heritage, epitomized by its famous peaches and peanuts, is a testament to the fertile growing conditions found throughout the region.

Georgia

Image from USDA

Characteristics of Georgia’s Planting Region

Georgia's climate is primarily humid subtropical, characterized by long, hot summers and short, mild winters. 

The state's diverse topography, from the Appalachian Mountains in the north to the coastal plains in the south, creates a variety of microclimates that influence growing conditions.

As a gardener in the Peach State, you can expect:

  • Hot, humid summers, with July temperatures averaging around 80°F to 92°F (26.7°C to 33.3°C)
  • Mild winters, particularly in southern areas, with January averages ranging from 35°F to 55°F (1.7°C to 12.8°C)
  • A long growing season, especially in southern Georgia, where frost is rare
  • Occasional extreme weather events, including hurricanes and severe thunderstorms

Georgia offers an excellent environment for many plants, with a growing season lasting up to 290 days in the southernmost regions. Most areas of the state experience frost-free days from late March through early November, providing ample time for cultivation.

Challenges of Growing in Georgia

Heat and Humidity 

Georgia's intense summer heat and humidity can stress many plants, particularly cool-season crops. This climate also promotes the growth of fungal diseases and pests.

Soil Variability 

Georgia's soils range from the clay-heavy Piedmont region to the sandy Coastal Plain. Each soil type presents unique challenges for water retention, drainage, and nutrient management.

Unpredictable Spring Weather 

Late frosts in North Georgia and sudden temperature fluctuations can damage early plantings, making it challenging to time spring gardens correctly.

The Benefits of Using a Greenhouse in Georgia

While Georgia's climate is generally favorable for gardening, a greenhouse can significantly enhance your growing capabilities:

1. Extend Your Growing Season 

  • Without a Greenhouse: In central Georgia, outdoor planting typically begins in late March and ends in early November. 
  • With a Greenhouse: Greenhouse gardeners can start seeds as early as January and continue harvesting well into December or year-round in some cases. This extension particularly benefits crops like lettuce, spinach, and other cool-season vegetables that struggle in Georgia's hot summers.

Learn more about your area's specific growing dates and the best vegetables to plant in each part of Georgia.

Customer images of their Greenhouse setup in Georgia

2. Grow a Wider Variety of Vegetables Without a Greenhouse: 

  • Without a Greenhouse:  

Georgia's outdoor conditions are ideal for heat-loving crops like:

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Sweet corn
  • Watermelons
  • Peanuts
  • Peaches
  • Cucumbers
  • Squash
  • Cantaloupes
  • Lima beans
  • With a Greenhouse: 

You can create microclimates suitable for a wider variety of plants, including:

  • Arugula,
  • Spinach, 
  • Broccoli,
  • Cauliflower, 
  • Brussels sprouts, 
  • Tomatoes, 
  • Peppers,
  • Eggplant, Cucumbers, environment)
  • melons, 
  • Zucchini, 
  • Carrots, 
  • Beets, 
  • Radishes)
  • Kale, 
  • Swiss chard,
  • Collard greens)
  • Basil, 
  • Cilantro
  • Parsley,
  • Rosemary,
  • Thyme, 
  • Green beans, Green onions,
  • Leeks)
  • Lemons,
  • Limes,
  • Kumquats,
  • Figs

Why Planta Greenhouses?

For Georgia, we recommend the following greenhouses:

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