Arkansas falls primarily within USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7a, 7b, 8a, and 8b for planting purposes. The majority of the state is in Zone 8a, with northern parts in Zones 7a and 7b, and the southernmost regions extending into Zone 8b
- Zone 7a : Northern Arkansas, including cities like Bentonville and Fayetteville, with average minimum temperatures of 0 to 5°F.
- Zone 7b : Just south of Zone 7a, including cities like Jonesboro and Batesville, with minimum temperatures of 5 to 10°F.
- Zone 8a : Covers much of central Arkansas, including Little Rock, Fort Smith, and Hot Springs, with minimum temperatures of 10 to 15°F.
- Zone 8b : Southernmost parts of Arkansas, including Pine Bluff and Texarkana, with minimum temperatures of 15 to 20°F
This zoning helps gardeners select plants that can survive Arkansas' winter lows and thrive during the growing season. The zones reflect recent warming trends, with the state’s zones shifting slightly warmer compared to older maps
