What Planting Zone is Missouri?[Map, Cities, and Growing Tips]
If you’re planning a garden or landscaping project in Missouri, the first thing you need to know is what planting zone is Missouri in. Understanding your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone helps you pick plants that can survive Missouri’s winters and thrive in its growing season.
In this guide, we’ll cover what planting zone is Missouri, how it varies by region, and what that means for gardeners like you.
🌱 What Planting Zone is Missouri?
Missouri planting zones range from Zone 5b to Zone 7b:
| Region | USDA Planting Zone |
|---|---|
| Northern Missouri (e.g., Kirksville) | Zone 5b |
| Central Missouri (e.g., Columbia, Jefferson City) | Zone 6a–6b |
| Southern Missouri (e.g., Springfield, Branson) | Zone 7a–7b |
These zones are determined by the average minimum winter temperatures. For example, Zone 5b areas may experience lows down to -15°F, while Zone 7b regions rarely see temps below 5°F.
If you’ve been wondering what planting zone is Missouri, this chart is your quick answer. But keep reading — there’s more you should know.
📍 Missouri Planting Zones by City
Here’s a breakdown of the planting zones in Missouri for major cities:
| City | Planting Zone |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | Zone 6a |
| St. Louis | Zone 6b |
| Columbia | Zone 6a |
| Springfield | Zone 7a |
| Jefferson City | Zone 6b |
| Cape Girardeau | Zone 7b |
| St. Joseph | Zone 5b |
| Joplin | Zone 7a |
If you’ve searched “what planting zone is Missouri,” these city-specific zones will help you choose the right plants for your area.
🌡️ Why Missouri Planting Zones Matter for Your Garden?
Missouri’s planting zones influence:
- Which perennials can survive winter
- When to plant vegetables and annuals
- How to protect plants from frost
Choosing plants not suited for your Missouri planting zone can result in wasted time and money. Cold-sensitive plants may not survive a harsh Zone 5b winter, while heat-loving varieties will thrive in Zone 7b.
If you’re serious about gardening, knowing what planting zone is Missouri is non-negotiable.
🧠 Real Example: Growing Tomatoes in Missouri’s Zones
For instance, in Zone 5b, you’d plant tomatoes outdoors after May 10, when the risk of frost has passed. In Zone 7a or 7b, you could start as early as mid-April.
That extra month of growing time can:
- Increase yields
- Allow for a second planting
- Reduce disease pressure from cold snaps
Again, understanding what planting zone is Missouri directly impacts when you sow, plant, and harvest.
📅 Missouri Planting Calendar by Zone
| Crop Type | Zone 5b Start | Zone 6 Start | Zone 7 Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool-weather crops | Mar–Apr | Feb–Mar | Jan–Feb |
| Warm-weather crops | May–Jun | Apr–May | Mar–Apr |
| Perennials | Early spring/Fall | Same | Same |
The best planting times in Missouri vary based on what planting zone is Missouri in your location.
💡 Missouri Gardening Tips for Success
Missouri’s climate brings both opportunities and challenges:
- Use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Amend clay-heavy soil for better drainage
- Choose native plants for lower maintenance
- Watch out for pests like Japanese beetles in summer
Whether you’re in Zone 5b or Zone 7b, these tips will help you make the most of Missouri’s seasons.
📍 Find Your Exact Missouri Planting Zone
Want to know what planting zone is Missouri for your specific zip code? Use the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and enter your zip. This will give you the most accurate zone information.
🧮 Helpful Tools for Missouri Gardeners
- Soil Volume Calculator – Know exactly how much soil you need for raised beds.
- Plant Spacing Calculator – Prevent overcrowding and maximize yield.
- Indoor Plant Watering Calculator – Perfect for your houseplants or container garden.
🙋 FAQs About What Planting Zone is Missouri
What is the warmest planting zone in Missouri?
The warmest is Zone 7b, found in the southernmost parts like Cape Girardeau and the Bootheel region.
Does Missouri have multiple planting zones?
Yes, Missouri spans from Zone 5b in the north to Zone 7b in the south, with most of the state in Zone 6.
Can I grow citrus trees in Missouri?
Citrus trees are not cold-hardy enough for Missouri’s climate. You’d need to grow them in containers and overwinter indoors.
✅ Final Thoughts: What Planting Zone is Missouri?
In summary, what planting zone is Missouri depends on where you live:
- Northern Missouri → Zone 5b
- Central Missouri → Zone 6a–6b
- Southern Missouri → Zone 7a–7b
Knowing your exact zone ensures you select plants that thrive, time your planting correctly, and avoid costly mistakes. Always start with your zone — it’s the foundation of successful gardening in Missouri.
