New USDA Zone Map: GIS and 30 years of data and over 30,000 collection points still requires that you use your elegantly evolved powers of observation. This map is “general” within the millions of years of the planet, and general to your personal portion of the landscape. But it is important for a trend, a change, as we plan our gardens and planting for one to 10 years. Remember: Zones – or areas of micro-climates in your landscape – are all about scale. In other words, the dark-painted, south-facing wall of your garage could be a Zone 4 or 5 in full winter sun…or your north-facing white wall could be a Zone 1. Also, in any town or city, your temperatures will always be warmer than the general trend and the surrounding, less-developed landscapes. All the hardscape – asphalt, concrete, buildings, etc – holds the heat during the day and releases it during the night, creating a blanket of warmth over the city. Out here in ex-urban, mile-high central Wyoming USA, I may be at 20 degrees F, but your thermometer in “downtown” Casper may read 30 degrees F.
What we have lost is that ability to read the surrounding climate and landscape. It is a skill that has served us well for millennia. To return to our ability to observe and translate the language of our place near the earth, also feeds our brains and nervous systems to read other environments, to adapt, to be somewhat prepared, even to observing, reading and effectively communicating with other creatures – human and otherwise.
“The highest good is like water. Water gives life to the Ten Thousand Things and does not strive. It flows in places humans reject, and so is like the Tao.
In dwelling, be close to the land.
In meditation, go deep in the heart.
In dealing with others, be gentle and kind.
In speech, be true.
In ruling, be just.
In business, be competent.
In action, watch the timing.
No fight; no blame.” ~ Lao Tsu /Li Er
The weather today is cooler. Bundle up and take some time to get close to the land…
https://phys.org/news/2023-11-hardiness-gardeners-nationwide-unveiled.html
The Refuge Permaculture Center 
One response to “New USDA Zone Map: Critical Thinking and Your Observations Are More Important”
Thank you for the article on the zone map. Most helpful and informative article I have read this morning. Have a Happy Thanksgiving, too.