Cincinnati, Ohio, falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, according to the 2023 USDA map. Zone 6b has average annual minimum temperatures ranging from -5°F to 0°F (-20.6°C to -17.8°C), supporting plants such as perennials, deciduous trees, and cold-hardy vegetables. This classification is influenced by Cincinnati’s abundant sunshine, diverse terrain, and varied soil types.
You can locate your Cincinnati USDA zone using our three tools given below, Zipcode to planting zone tool, location based interactive map or by using planting zone table.
Cincinnati Zones by ZipCode
Planting Zones Cincinnati Map
Select or type your Cincinnati location in the selection box below, to know its USDA Planting Zone.
City Name
Cincinnati Area Planting Zone
Planting Zones
Planting Zones
Cincinnati Planting Zones Table
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What are planting zones in Cincinnati, Ohio?
1. Zone 6b
The light green colored region on our map provided above represents Zone 6b, which covers most of Cincinnati and its surrounding areas. It has a moderate climate suitable for many plants and some key areas include downtown Cincinnati and most suburbs.
Some notable areas of Cincinnati falling in zone 6b are Downtown Cincinnati (45202), Mount Adams (45202), Over-the-Rhine (45202), Hyde Park (45208), Northside (45223), Pleasant Ridge (45213), Westwood (45211) etc.
Geographical factors influencing Cincinnati Planting zone
Sunshine
Cincinnati, Ohio, averages 2,340 annual sunshine hours, with June providing 277 hours and December 101. These sunlight levels combine with a 179-day growing season to support photosynthesis and plant health for Zone 6b-adapted species like perennials, deciduous trees, and cold-hardy vegetables.
Terrain
Cincinnati’s Ohio River Valley location creates microclimates through varied topography and the Cincinnati Arch’s influence on soil drainage. Urban green spaces sustain vegetation despite temperature extremes of -5°F to 0°F (-20.6°C to -17.8°C). The 179-day growing season and Illinoian-age loess soils shape conditions for Zone 6b plants.
Soil
Cincinnati’s Clermont, Rossmoyne, Avonburg, and Cincinnati soil series exhibit drainage ranges from poor (Clermont) to well-drained (Cincinnati). Profiles transition from silt loam topsoils to clay-rich subsoils, affecting root growth and water retention. Acidic pH levels and urban soil disturbances further influence plant selection for Zone 6b.
What are best plants for Cincinnati?
Trees like Maple, Oak, Dogwood, and Redbud thrive well in Cincinnati, Ohio USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. Shrubs such as Hydrangea, Viburnum, Boxwood, and Lilac also do well. For perennials, Black-eyed Susan, Coneflower, Daylily, and Hosta are excellent choices. When it comes to lawns, Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, and Fine Fescues adapt well to the local climate.
What is Cincinnati’s growing season?
The main planting seasons in Cincinnati are fall (September to October) and spring (March to April). The first frost typically occurs around October 16, and the last frost is usually around April 23, providing a substantial growing period.