What Growing Zone Is Ouray?

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Ouray a growing zone designation of 5b. Sometimes also called the planting or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in Ouray's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Ouray's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.

Latest CO growing zone map

If you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Ouray area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Ouray, CO.

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

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Latest CO growing zone map

The growing zone is a measure of the lowest temperature that a plant can survive based on average lowest year temperatures, helping you to decide what plants would grow best in your particular climate. Since Ouray is in growing zone 5b this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as -15 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Ouray's climate should be chosen with this in mind, or plants should be moved inside to keep their core temperature in the right range if necessary.

Some zones may have been changed by the USDA as of 2023. To see if the Ouray area has been affected, refer to this map of half zone changes from the 2012 version of the USDA zones to the 2023 version.

The updated map shows that over half of the Southeast has warmed by about half a zone. For gardeners, that means you can now grow plants that tolerate a bit more heat and less frost than before. The tan areas reflect this shift. Meanwhile, the white areas had slight temperature changes, but not enough to move them into a new zone. In the Western U.S., a few spots shifted cooler. That’s not due to a colder climate, but because the new map uses a larger dataset, giving a more accurate picture of local conditions. It's important to keep track of these changes when planning your garden!

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Hardiness Zone FAQ

Have questions about hardiness zones and what they mean for your garden? Check out our FAQ below for quick answers to common questions about USDA hardiness zones and how they affect plant selection in Ouray, CO.

The USDA hardiness zone is 5b for Ouray. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.

Ouray's Growing Zone Details

USDA Growing Zone: 5b

Zip Codes: 81427

Longitude: -107.6734

Latitude: 38.0276

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): -15 to -10

Large Greenhouse Kit

Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.

Brass Watering Can

Elegant brass watering can with classic design and durability.

Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

Grow fresh herbs and vegetables year-round with this indoor hydroponic garden system.

Raised Garden Bed Kit

Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.

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Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.

Map of the Ouray Area

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Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket

Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.

Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit

Grow fresh herbs and vegetables year-round with this indoor hydroponic garden system.

Raised Garden Planter

Elevated planter for easy access and better drainage.

Brass Decorative Faucet Handle

Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.

Plants For Other States

Looking for the best plants in a different area of the United States? Click on a button below to find plants that are ideal for that state's temperatures.

Hoeing Ain't Easy Garden Sign

Fun and decorative garden sign to add personality to your space.

Shiitake Mushroom Kit

Grow your own delicious shiitake mushrooms at home.

Reusable Grow Bags

Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.

Brass Decorative Faucet Handle

Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.

Small Greenhouse Kit

Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.

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