The three planting zones in Rhode Island are 6b, 7a, and 7b. The majority of the state falls within zone 6b, while eastern and southern Rhode Island are in slightly warmer zone 7a, and only a few small coastal or island areas are in zone 7b.
Understanding the state’s planting zones, also known as hardiness zones, helps you determine which plants thrive here. In this guide, we’ll explore the planting zones of Rhode Island and learn which plants are best suited for each zone.
Hardiness Zone Map for Rhode Island
Rhode Island falls within planting zones 6b, 7a, and 7b. The majority of the state falls into zone 6b, and only some coastal areas as well as Block Island fall within zone 7b.
You can take a closer look at the map below:
If you need help understanding how this map can help you elevate your lawn and landscaping, check out our guide: “How to Use the Updated and Warmer USDA Hardiness Zone Map.”
Zone 6b
Three of Rhode Island’s five counties are almost entirely within Zone 6b, including Providence, Kent, and Washington counties. Here, the average minimum winter temperature is -5 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
This zone includes cities such as Foster, Glocester, and North Smithfield.
Some plants that grow well within this zone include:
- White turtlehead
- Pink tickseed
- Marsh fern
- Trumpet honeysuckle
Zone 7a
Eastern and southern Rhode Island fall within zone 7a, where the average minimum temperature is 0 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. This zone includes cities such as Providence, Barrington, and Bristol.
Some plants that grow well within this zone include:
- Wood windflower
- Yellow wild indigo
- Royal fern
- Common groundnut
Zone 7b
Only a few small areas of Rhode Island are within zone 7b, mostly along the coast or island areas, where the average minimum temperature is 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
This zone includes New Shoreham on Block Island, as well as parts of Little Compton, including areas near Chase Point and Warren Point.
Some plants that grow well within this zone include:
- Meadow garlic
- Wild leek
- Cinnamon fern
- Common buttonbush
FAQ About Rhode Island’s Planting Zones
What grass types grow best in Rhode Island?
Cool-season grasses thrive in Rhode Island’s climate where summers are warm and winters are cold. Some cool-season grasses include:
For more information about the best grasses in Rhode Island, check out our article: “Best Grass Seed for Rhode Island.”
What trees can I grow in Rhode Island?
There are a variety of trees that can grow in all of Rhode Island’s planting zones:
- Red maple
- Black cherry
- White ash
- Atlantic white cedar
Note: For the best-adapted, easiest-to-care-for trees (and other plants), check out our Rhode Island native plant guide.
What can I grow in my Rhode Island vegetable garden?
Rhode Island’s planting zones can support the growth of popular veggies such as broccoli, carrots, radishes, and lettuce. Tomatoes also thrive in Rhode Island and make excellent additions to vegetable dishes.
Hire a Pro
Knowing your growing zone makes you better equipped to grow a beautiful garden or a healthy lawn. Whether you’re in zone 6b, 7a, or 7b there’s an abundance of great plants you can grow that will thrive in your corner of the Ocean State.
To keep your yard looking great year-round, hire a landscaping pro. They’ll take care of all of your yard’s maintenance needs so you can enjoy having a lush yard without the hassle.
Main Image Credit: A house in Newport, Rhode Island / Tony Kent / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
