Most of Eastern Kentucky is in the planting zone 7a, with a few county exceptions. This guide will help you understand the specific zones in this region so you can plant species best suited for your area.
But if you want to know what are the planting zones for other Kentucky regions, check out our guides below:
What planting zone is Eastern Kentucky?
For educational purposes, we’re considering Eastern Kentucky the Eastern Kentucky Coalfield area. This region stretches from the Appalachian Mountains westward across the Cumberland Plateau to the Pottsville Escarpment. It is mostly in zone 7a, where extreme minimum temperatures range from 0 F to 5 F.
In terms of ecoregions, Eastern Kentucky falls within the Appalachian Plateaus, which are known for their rugged cliffs, steep ravines, and narrow valleys.
Let’s take a closer look at each Appalachian Plateau sub-region and its planting zones:
Outer Appalachians
Some counties in northeast Kentucky, located in the Outer Appalachians, fall into zone 6b. This zone experiences slightly colder temperatures, ranging from -5 F to 0 F. The counties that are in this zone are:
- Greenup (partially)
- Carter
- Boyd (partially)
- Lawrence (partially)
- Elliott
- Morgan
- Owsley (partially)
Interestingly, Ashland, located in Boyd County, falls into zone 7a, so it experiences milder temperatures than the western part of the county. London, in Laurel County, is also in zone 7a.
Central Appalachians
The Central Appalachians in Eastern Kentucky, characterized by rugged terrain and lush forests, are mostly in zone 7a. A few exceptions are Jackson and Clay Counties, which have a few spots in zone 6b.
The city of Pikeville, located in Pike County, is also in zone 7a.
Cumberland Mountains
The Cumberland Mountains have a high elevation, resulting in colder temperatures. In Kentucky, this region comprises mostly the counties of Harlan and Bell, but the planting zones are varied:
- Harlan County has parts in zone 6b and parts in zone 7a.
- Bell County has parts in zone 7a and parts in zone 7b.
For instance, Middlesboro, located in Bell County, falls into zone 7a. If you’re not sure in which planting zone your city falls, enter your ZIP code in the 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
You can then use your planting zone to choose The Best Kentucky Native Plants for Your Home in our guide.
When to call a pro
As you can see, even though most of Kentucky falls in zone 7a, it’s not always straightforward. The best plants for one city might not be ideal for another, even if they’re in the same county.
That’s why it’s a good idea to give a call to a local professional. We have pros in Ashland and other Kentucky cities, and they can help choose the best plants for your specific area, ensuring your garden looks its best.
Main Image Credit: Joseph D. Harkins House | Nyttend | Wikimedia Commons | Public Domain
