USDA Plant Hardiness Zone

2b: Chilled Meadows

Meadows begin to thaw, revealing hearty, cold-resistant plants ready to bloom.

With its short growing season and frigid temperatures, USDA Zone 2b presents unique challenges for homesteaders, farmers, and agricultural enthusiasts. Despite the cold, careful planning and suitable crops can lead to successful harvests in this extreme climate.

Zone 2b Statistics

In Zone 2b, gardeners have success with a wider range of vegetables and some fruits, such as hardy berry varieties and root crops that enjoy the cool temperatures.

First Frost Date
Early September
Last Frost Date
Early June
Growing Season Days
70
Average Annual Rainfall
18 inches
Average Summer Temperature
65°F
Average Winter Temperature
-15°F
Zone Min Temperature
-35°F to -40°F
Annual Sunshine Hours
1600

Recommended Crops

Marigold

Marigold Magic: Enhance Your Garden with Vibrant Color and Pest Control

Not just pretty faces, marigolds help repel pests and improve tomato health. Discover how to grow marigolds alongside your veggies for a thriving garden.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
  • Companion Plants: tomato, cucumber, pepper

Radish

Quick and Easy Radishes: From Seed to Harvest in 30 Days

Radishes are one of the quickest growing vegetables. Learn how to plant, care for, and harvest radishes to add a crisp, peppery flavor to your meals.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
  • Companion Plants: carrot, lettuce, peas

Peas

Sweet Peas: The Secret to Growing Plump, Juicy Pods

Whether you love snap, snow, or shell peas, our guide will help you grow a plentiful harvest. Discover tips for planting, care, and picking your peas.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Companion Plants: carrot, radish, cucumber

Borage

Borage: The Starflower with Edible and Medicinal Benefits

Borage, with its striking blue flowers, is not only beautiful but also beneficial for the garden. Learn how to grow borage for its edible flowers and leaves.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
  • Companion Plants: strawberry, tomato, spinach

Dill

Dill: An Herb That Elevates Dishes and Supports Your Garden

Dill is not just for pickles! Learn how to grow dill in your garden for culinary uses and its benefits as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
  • Companion Plants: cabbage, onion, fava bean

Sunflower

Sunflowers: Towering Beauties of the Garden

Learn how to grow sunflowers, the giants of the garden. Our guide covers everything from seed selection to care, ensuring a spectacular display.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Companion Plants: cucumber, lettuce, peas

Cabbage

Cabbage: A Staple for the Winter Garden

Cabbage is versatile and hearty. Discover how to grow, care for, and harvest cabbage, making it a staple in your garden and kitchen.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Companion Plants: dill, onion, marigold

Beet

Beets: Growing Your Own for Health and Flavor

Beets are not only nutritious but also versatile in the kitchen. Our guide will help you grow beets easily, with tips on care, harvesting, and storage.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Companion Plants: onion, lettuce, cabbage

Celery

Celery: Crunchy, Fresh, and Full of Flavor

Growing celery at home is easier than you think. Our guide covers all you need to know from planting seeds to harvesting crisp stalks.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Companion Plants: leek, tomato, cauliflower

Cauliflower

Cauliflower: A Guide to Growing This Classic Vegetable

Cauliflower requires a bit more care to grow than its relatives, but the reward is worth it. Learn how to grow, care for, and harvest cauliflower.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Companion Plants: spinach, sage, peas

Blueberry

Blueberries: A Berry Lover's Guide to Growing

Blueberries, rich in antioxidants, thrive in acidic soil. Our comprehensive guide covers everything from soil preparation to harvesting these delicious berries.

  • Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Companion Plants: strawberry, thyme, sage