Köppen Climate Zones
Comprehensive global climate reference with regional hardiness zone equivalents
About This Reference
The Köppen climate classification system divides the world into climate zones based on temperature, precipitation, and seasonal patterns. This reference provides comprehensive climate information for regenerative agriculture, including regional hardiness zone equivalents used in different parts of the world.
Understanding your climate zone helps select appropriate crops, livestock breeds, and management practices. Each zone below includes:
- Köppen Classification - The scientific standard used globally
- Regional Hardiness Zones - USDA, Australian, RHS (UK/Europe), Canadian, China, and EU equivalents
- Narrative Description - Plain-language climate characteristics and agricultural context
- Temperature Ranges - Both Celsius and Fahrenheit
- Example Locations - Familiar cities and regions worldwide
Climate Categories
Köppen zones use 2-3 letter codes where:
- First letter indicates major climate group (A = Tropical, B = Dry, C = Temperate, D = Continental, E = Polar, H = Highland)
- Second letter indicates precipitation patterns (f = year-round rain, s = dry summer, w = dry winter)
- Third letter indicates temperature characteristics (a = hot summer, b = warm summer, h = hot, k = cold)
Jump to Climate Category
🌴 Tropical Climates (A)
Af
Tropical Rainforest
This is a climate of constant warmth and abundant rain, with no real 'seasons' as you might know them, just a continuous cycle of growth. Expect hot temperatures year-round with no risk of frost, making it ideal for growing crops 365 days a year, similar to places like Singapore, Manaus, or Douala. Rainfall is heavy and distributed throughout the year, meaning you'll always need to manage moisture for your crops, whether they are fast-growing annuals or long-term perennial trees and fruits.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 11, 12, 13 | Minimum temperature: 18°C to 24°C (64-75°F) |
| Australian | tropical | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h1a, h1b | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 9a, 9b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Singapore, Manaus (Brazil), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Douala (Cameroon), Iquitos (Peru), Hilo (Hawaii)
Am
Tropical Monsoon Climate
This climate features a distinct wet season, typically from June to September, bringing heavy rains ideal for fast-growing annual crops, followed by a long dry season from December to May. Temperatures are consistently hot year-round, with very little risk of frost, making it suitable for perennial crops that can grow throughout the year but requiring careful water management during the dry months. You'll find this pattern in places like Mumbai, India; Lagos, Nigeria; and Miami, USA, where farming relies on maximizing the monsoon rains and surviving the dry spell.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b | Minimum temperature: 18°C to 24°C (64-75°F) |
| Australian | tropical | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h2, h3 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 9, 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Mumbai (India), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Yangon (Myanmar), Lagos (Nigeria), Monrovia (Liberia), Miami (Florida)
Aw
Tropical Savanna
This climate features distinct hot wet seasons followed by warm dry seasons, with temperatures remaining warm year-round and virtually no risk of frost, making it ideal for year-round farming in many areas. Rain typically falls heavily during the wet season, from roughly May to October in the Northern Hemisphere and November to April in the Southern Hemisphere, supporting rainfed agriculture. Farmers in places like Brazil, India, and parts of Africa often plan their main crops around these predictable rainy periods, managing water carefully during the dry months.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b, 12a, 12b, 13a | Minimum temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50-65°F) |
| Australian | tropical | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h2, h3 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 9, 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | mediterranean | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Nairobi (Kenya), Darwin (Australia), Havana (Cuba), Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso), Brasília (Brazil), Accra (Ghana)
🏜️ Dry Climates (Arid) (B)
BSh
Hot Steppe Climate
This hot steppe climate means long, hot summers with very little rain, often making it difficult to grow crops without irrigation. Winters are generally mild with some frost risk, and most of the scarce rainfall arrives during a short wet season, which is crucial for grazing livestock and planting drought-tolerant crops like sorghum or millet. You'll find this type of weather in places like West Texas, parts of Niger, Mali, India, and central Australia, where farming often means adapting to dry spells and high heat.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a | Minimum temperature: -6°C to 2°C (20-35°F) |
| Australian | grassland | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9, 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | mediterranean | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Midland (Texas), Niamey (Niger), Jodhpur (India), Alice (Texas), Bamako (Mali), Broken Hill (Australia)
BSk
Cold Steppe
This climate features cold, dry winters with significant frost risk, followed by short, warm summers. Precipitation is often scarce, with most falling in late spring and early summer, making water management crucial for the short growing season. Farmers in regions like the Great Plains of North America, parts of Central Asia, and inland Spain will recognize the challenges of maximizing yields with limited moisture and a narrow window for planting and harvesting hardy grains and forage crops.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6 | Minimum temperature: -18°C to -7°C (0-20°F) |
| Australian | grassland | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 6, 7, 8 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Denver (Colorado), Great Falls (Montana), Ankara (Turkey), Calgary (Alberta), Astana (Kazakhstan), Zaragoza (Spain)
BWh
Hot Desert Climate
This is a very hot and dry climate, with scorching summers and mild winters that rarely see frost, making it challenging for rain-fed agriculture. Rainfall is extremely scarce and unpredictable, often occurring in short, intense bursts, meaning irrigation is essential for any farming, typically around oases or river valleys like those found near Phoenix, Dubai, or Cairo. Outside these irrigated areas, vast dry rangelands support hardy livestock, similar to parts of the Australian Outback or the Arabian Peninsula.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | Zone 9, Zone 10, Zone 11, Zone 12 | Minimum temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50-65°F) |
| Australian | arid | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h2, h3 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 9, 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | mediterranean | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Phoenix (Arizona), Dubai (UAE), Cairo (Egypt), Alice Springs (Australia), Lima (Peru), Riyadh (Saudi Arabia)
BWk
Cold Desert Climate
This climate features very dry conditions with cold winters and hot summers, experiencing significant temperature swings between day and night and across seasons, with a high risk of frost. Rainfall is scarce, often occurring in brief, unpredictable showers, making water management critical for agriculture. Farmers here, like those in Leh, India, or Reno, USA, often rely on drought-tolerant crops and livestock, utilizing short growing seasons and any available irrigation for survival and production.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6 | Minimum temperature: -23°C to -7°C (-10-20°F) |
| Australian | arid | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 6, 7, 8 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Leh (India), Almaty (Kazakhstan), Reno (Nevada), Mendoza (Argentina), Urumqi (China), Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
🌳 Temperate Climates (C)
Cfa
Humid Subtropical
This climate offers long, warm, and humid summers perfect for growing a wide range of crops, often experiencing abundant rainfall during this period. Winters are mild with only occasional light frosts, allowing for a second, cooler-season planting of forages or grains. Farmers in places like Atlanta, Shanghai, Brisbane, or Buenos Aires will recognize these patterns, which support diverse farming systems but also demand careful management of heat, humidity, and heavy rains to control pests and diseases.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b | Minimum temperature: -6°C to 2°C (20-35°F) |
| Australian | temperate, subtropical | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9, 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Atlanta (Georgia), Shanghai (China), Brisbane (Australia), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Nashville (Tennessee), Tokyo (Japan)
Cfb
Oceanic Climate
This climate offers mild temperatures year-round with no extreme heat or cold, making it ideal for a 'Year-Round Green System' where pastures and crops grow consistently. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, meaning you can expect regular moisture for your fields, though this can sometimes lead to waterlogged soils in winter. Found in places like the Pacific Northwest of the US, the UK, France, and Tasmania, it supports diverse farming with fewer worries about drought or harsh frosts, though careful water management is key.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b | Minimum temperature: -12°C to -1°C (10-30°F) |
| Australian | temperate | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Seattle (Washington), London (UK), Paris (France), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Hobart (Tasmania), Portland (Oregon)
Csa
Hot-Summer Mediterranean
This climate features hot, dry summers perfect for sun-loving crops, followed by mild, wet winters that are crucial for replenishing soil moisture and supporting winter-growing annuals and pastures. Frost is infrequent but possible during winter, requiring careful planning for sensitive crops and livestock. Farmers in regions like Fresno, California, Athens, Greece, and Perth, Australia, often rely on drought-tolerant perennials and strategic planting during the cooler, wetter months to thrive.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b | Minimum temperature: -1°C to 2°C (30-35°F) |
| Australian | temperate | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5, h1c | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Fresno (California), Athens (Greece), Perth (Australia), Santiago (Chile), Palermo (Italy), Tirana (Albania)
Csb
Warm-Summer Mediterranean
This climate features warm, dry summers perfect for drought-tolerant crops like olives and grapes, followed by mild, wet winters that provide essential moisture for growth. While summers are generally frost-free, winter nights can bring light frosts, requiring careful planning for sensitive crops and livestock grazing. You'll find this pattern in places like coastal California, Portugal, central Chile, and parts of southern Australia, where farming often relies on winter rains and summer dormancy.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b | Minimum temperature: -6°C to 2°C (20-35°F) |
| Australian | temperate | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5, h1c | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Sebastopol (California), San Francisco (California), Lisbon (Portugal), Melbourne (Australia), Porto (Portugal), Valparaíso (Chile)
Cwa
Monsoon-Influenced Humid Subtropical
This climate features hot, wet summers driven by monsoon rains, perfect for intensive summer cropping, followed by mild, dry winters with little to no frost. Farmers here often rely on the summer downpours for their main harvest, while managing water for dry-season crops or livestock feed. You'll find this pattern in places like Delhi, India; Nairobi, Kenya; and Harare, Zimbabwe, presenting a clear growing season tied to the arrival and departure of the rains.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b | Minimum temperature: -1°C to 2°C (30-36°F) |
| Australian | subtropical | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9, 10 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Delhi (India), Nairobi (Kenya), Kathmandu (Nepal), Harare (Zimbabwe), Lusaka (Zambia), Pretoria (South Africa)
Cwb
Subtropical Highland Climate
This climate, found in places like Mexico City, Bogotá, and Nairobi, features distinct wet and dry seasons with cooler temperatures year-round due to high elevation. Expect warm days and cool nights, with a significant risk of frost during the dry, cooler months, impacting crop choices. Farming here means planning for abundant rainfall and lush growth during the wet season, followed by a drier period where drought-tolerant crops or overwintering varieties are key, alongside livestock grazing.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b | Minimum temperature: -12°C to -1°C (10-30°F) |
| Australian | Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Bogotá (Colombia), Mexico City (Mexico), Kunming (China), Nairobi (Kenya), Guatemala City (Guatemala)
❄️ Continental Climates (D)
Dfa
Hot-Summer Continental
This climate offers a distinct 'four-season intensive' system, with warm to hot summers perfect for fast crop growth and cold winters requiring crops to go dormant or livestock to be housed. You'll experience significant temperature swings, with hot summers and frosty winters, making the most of the short, productive growing season crucial. Rain is generally spread throughout the year, though summers can be wetter, supporting a wide range of temperate crops and livestock, similar to regions like the US Midwest, parts of Canada, China, and Eastern Europe.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a | Minimum temperature: -18°C to -12°C (-0-10°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 6, 7, 8 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Des Moines (Iowa), Chicago (Illinois), Toronto (Canada), Beijing (China), Milwaukee (Wisconsin), Bucharest (Romania)
Dfb
Warm-Summer Continental
This climate features warm summers and very cold winters, with a distinct growing season that can be short. You'll experience significant frost risk, especially in spring and fall, making crop selection and timing crucial. While summers can be warm enough for crops to mature, the cold winters help control pests and diseases, and are vital for overwintering livestock and hardy crops, similar to farming conditions found in parts of the northern United States, Canada, Russia, and Scandinavia.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b | Minimum temperature: -39°C to -29°C (-38°F to -20°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 6, 7, 8 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | atlantic | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Minneapolis (Minnesota), Montreal (Canada), Moscow (Russia), Stockholm (Sweden), Helsinki (Finland), Anchorage (Alaska)
Dfc
Cool-Summer Subarctic
Subarctic climate with cool summers and very cold winters. Growing season ranges from 90-120 frost-free days with exceptional summer daylight (18-20 hours). Winter temperatures regularly drop to -40°F to -60°F with 5-7 month heating season. Annual precipitation 10-20 inches distributed throughout the year. Agriculture focuses on cold-hardy crops (root vegetables, hardy greens, berries, quick-maturing grains) and season extension through high tunnels and cold frames. Livestock requires cold-adapted breeds with substantial winter shelter and 5-7 months stored feed. Extended daylight hours compensate for short season. Typical of interior Alaska, northern Yukon, and continental subarctic regions.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a | Minimum temperature: -60°F to -35°F (-51°C to -37°C) |
| Canadian | 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
Example Locations: Fairbanks (Alaska), Yellowknife (Canada), Whitehorse (Canada), Anchorage (Alaska), Inuvik (Canada), Fort McMurray (Canada)
Dfd
Extreme-Winter Subarctic
Extreme subarctic climate with very cold winters and short, cool summers. Growing season only 60-90 frost-free days (mid-June to late August). Winter temperatures regularly reach -50°F to -70°F with potential extremes to -80°F. Heating season 7-8 months. Annual precipitation 10-15 inches. Agriculture extremely limited: ultra-fast crops (45-60 days), protected cultivation mandatory, native berries, storage vegetables. Livestock restricted to most cold-hardy breeds (Yakutian horses, yaks, Icelandic sheep) with heated shelters and year-round imported feed. Food production focuses on subsistence and security rather than market agriculture. Traditional harvesting supplements limited crop production.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 1a, 1b | Minimum temperature: Below -60°F (Below -51°C) |
| Canadian | 0a, 0b, 1a | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
Example Locations: Northern Yukon (Canada), North Slope Interior (Alaska), Extreme continental regions
Dsa
Hot-Summer Mediterranean Continental
This climate features cold, snowy winters with significant frost risk, followed by very hot, dry summers. Most of the year's rain falls during the cooler, milder spring and autumn months, with winter often bringing snow. Farmers here typically rely on drought-tolerant perennial crops and winter grains that grow during the wetter, cooler periods, facing challenges from both winter freezes and summer heat and drought, similar to farming conditions found in parts of Eastern Washington state, Turkey, and Iran.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | Zone 5b, Zone 6a, Zone 6b, Zone 7a | Minimum temperature: -23°C to -12°C (-10-10°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 6, 7, 8 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Spokane (Washington), Erzurum (Turkey), Tabriz (Iran), Diyarbakır (Turkey), Van (Turkey), Urfa (Turkey)
Dsb
Warm-Summer Mediterranean Continental
This climate features cold, wet winters with significant frost risk, followed by warm, dry summers ideal for drought-tolerant crops and seasonal grazing. Winter precipitation, often snow, is crucial for replenishing soil moisture for the growing season, which is typically short and can be limited by late frosts or early dry spells. Think of the intermountain West of the USA, similar to regions in Central Asia, parts of the Andes in South America, and inland areas of Southern Europe.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b | Minimum temperature: -23°C to -12°C (-10-10°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 8, 9 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Klamath Falls (Oregon), Boise (Idaho), Reno (Nevada), Elko (Nevada), Bishop (California), Bend (Oregon)
Dsc
Cold Semi-Arid Subarctic
Cold semi-arid climate with cool summers and very cold winters. Growing season 90-120 frost-free days with 8-12 inches annual precipitation. Winter temperatures -30°F to -50°F. Rain shadow location creates moisture deficit during growing season. Agriculture requires crops with both cold-hardiness and drought tolerance: root vegetables, hardy greens, drought-tolerant berries, hardy grains. Irrigation infrastructure valuable. Forage production lower than humid subarctic; drought-adapted grasses essential. Livestock needs cold-hardy breeds with efficient water use. Combines subarctic cold management with semi-arid moisture conservation strategies.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 2a, 2b, 3a | Minimum temperature: -50°F to -40°F (-46°C to -40°C) |
| Canadian | 2a, 2b, 3a | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
Example Locations: Interior Alaska valleys, Rain shadow regions of Yukon, Dry subarctic areas
Dsd
Extreme Semi-Arid Subarctic
Extreme cold semi-arid climate with very short, cool summers and severe winters. Growing season only 60-90 frost-free days (mid-June to late August). Winter temperatures -50°F to -70°F (extremes to -80°F). Annual precipitation 6-10 inches. Agriculture faces dual constraints of extreme cold and moisture deficit. Production limited to ultra-fast (45-60 days), drought-tolerant crops with irrigation. Greenhouses mandatory for most vegetables. Livestock restricted to most extreme cold-dry adapted breeds (yaks, Yakutian horses, Icelandic sheep) with heated shelters and imported feed. Market agriculture economically unviable; subsistence and traditional harvesting provide food security.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 1a, 1b, 2a | Minimum temperature: Below -60°F (Below -51°C) |
| Canadian | 0a, 0b, 1a, 1b, 2a | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
Example Locations: Extreme continental interiors, Arctic rain shadow zones
Dwa
Monsoon Continental
This climate features hot, wet summers perfect for growing crops, followed by long, cold, and dry winters with a significant risk of frost. Most of the year's rain falls during the summer monsoon season, from roughly June to September, making it crucial for crop development. Farmers in regions like Northeast China, North Korea, and parts of Russia must carefully plan their planting and harvesting to maximize the short, warm growing period and prepare for the harsh winter conditions.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b | Minimum temperature: -23°C to -12°C (-10-0°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 6, 7, 8 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Shenyang (China), Pyongyang (North Korea), Harbin (China), Vladivostok (Russia), Changchun (China), Seoul (South Korea)
Dwb
Monsoon-Influenced Warm-Summer Continental
This climate features warm, wet summers perfect for rapid crop growth, followed by long, very cold, and dry winters. Most of the year's rain falls during the summer monsoon, with winters being harsh and often snow-covered, requiring careful planning for feed and livestock survival. You'll find this pattern in places like parts of Mongolia and Northeast China, where farmers adapt to a distinct growing season followed by a deep winter dormancy.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b | Minimum temperature: -40°C to -23°C (-40°F to -10°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h3, h4, h5 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 5, 6, 7 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia), Harbin (China), Changchun (China), Irkutsk (Russia), Chita (Russia), Manzhouli (China)
Dwc
Monsoon-Influenced Subarctic
Cold subarctic dry-winter climate with cool summers and very cold, dry winters. Growing season 90-110 frost-free days (early June to mid-September). Winter temperatures -30°F to -50°F (extremes -60°F). Summer temperatures 65-75°F. Annual precipitation 10-15 inches, concentrated in summer months; winters dry with minimal snow. Agriculture focuses on cold-hardy crops utilizing summer precipitation: root vegetables, hardy greens, berries with mulch protection, hardy grains. Forage from dry-winter adapted grasses. Livestock requires continental-adapted breeds tolerating temperature extremes and dry winters. Dry winters reduce snow insulation, requiring mulch protection for perennials. Spring moisture from snowmelt, summer rains support crop growth.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 2a, 2b, 3a | Minimum temperature: -50°F to -35°F (-46°C to -37°C) |
| Canadian | 2a, 2b, 3a | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
Example Locations: Continental subarctic regions, Dry-winter boreal zones
Dwd
Extreme Dry-Winter Subarctic
Extreme cold subarctic dry-winter climate with very short summers and severe, dry winters. Growing season only 60-90 frost-free days (mid-June to late August). Winter temperatures -50°F to -70°F (extremes -80°F). Annual precipitation 8-12 inches, concentrated in summer; winters extremely dry with minimal snow. Agriculture faces extreme cold and desiccation: ultra-fast crops (45-60 days), greenhouses mandatory, no overwintering crops viable. Livestock restricted to most extreme cold-dry breeds (yaks, Yakutian horses, Icelandic sheep) with heated shelters, wind protection, and imported feed. Dry winters increase cold injury risk. Market agriculture economically unviable; subsistence and traditional harvesting essential for food security.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 1a, 1b, 2a | Minimum temperature: Below -60°F (Below -51°C) |
| Canadian | 0a, 0b, 1a, 1b, 2a | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
Example Locations: Extreme continental interiors, Severe dry-winter zones
🧊 Polar Climates (E)
EF
Ice Cap Climate
This is a climate of perpetual winter, where temperatures are always below freezing, making traditional farming impossible and even short growing seasons non-existent. Any precipitation falls as snow, and while there are no distinct wet or dry seasons, snow accumulation is constant. This extreme cold, found in places like the highest peaks of Greenland and Antarctica, means agriculture is limited to research stations or highly controlled indoor environments, relying entirely on imported resources.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 1a, 1b | Minimum temperature: -50°C to -20°C (-58°F to -4°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h5, h6, h7 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 0a, 0b, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 1, 2, 3 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | alpine | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Summit Station (Greenland), Vostok Station (Antarctica), Dome Fuji (Antarctica), South Pole Station, Nord (Greenland)
ET
Tundra Climate
This climate is defined by extremely long, cold winters and very short, cool summers, with frost a risk even in summer. Precipitation is generally low, falling mostly as snow in winter and light rain during the brief summer growing season. Agriculture here is challenging, relying on hardy, fast-growing crops and livestock that can endure harsh conditions and utilize the short summer for grazing and quick harvests, similar to regions in northern Alaska, Canada, and Siberia.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b | Minimum temperature: -40°C to -20°C (-40°F to -4°F) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h5, h6, h7 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 0a, 0b, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 1, 2, 3, 4 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | alpine | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Barrow (Alaska), Iqaluit (Canada), Murmansk (Russia), Tiksi (Russia), Longyearbyen (Norway), Qaanaaq (Greenland)
🏔️ Highland Climates (H)
H
Highland Climate
Highland climates are defined by cool to cold temperatures year-round, with significant frost risk even in summer, making for short growing seasons. Precipitation often falls as snow, especially at higher elevations, and can be highly variable, with wet and dry periods depending on the specific mountain range. Farming here often involves hardy livestock grazing on mountain pastures and cultivating crops in sheltered valleys, similar to areas around Denver, Quito, or Lhasa.
| Zone System | Zones | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USDA (USA) | Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3 | Minimum temperature: -18°C to -7°C (0-20°F) |
| Australian | Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3 | Australian hardiness zones (0-6 scale, based on minimum temperatures) |
| RHS (UK/Europe) | h4, h5, h6 | Royal Horticultural Society hardiness ratings (H1-H7) |
| Canadian | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b | Canadian plant hardiness zones (similar to USDA, adjusted for Canadian patterns) |
| China | 5, 6, 7 | China plant hardiness zones (1-10 scale) |
| EU Regions | continental | European climate regions used in EU agriculture |
Example Locations: Denver (Colorado), Quito (Ecuador), La Paz (Bolivia), Lhasa (Tibet), Cusco (Peru), Kathmandu (Nepal)
How to Use This Reference
Finding Your Zone: Use the Köppen code if you know it, or browse by category (Tropical, Dry, Temperate, Continental, Polar, Highland). Look for example locations similar to yours, or use the temperature ranges to identify your zone.
Choosing Plants and Animals: Once you know your Köppen zone, use the regional zone equivalents (USDA, Australian, RHS, etc.) to select appropriate varieties. Most seed catalogs and breed registries list recommended zones using your region's standard system.
Understanding Climate Variability: Each Köppen zone typically maps to multiple regional zones because climate varies within the zone. The ranges provided represent the typical variation you'll encounter.
Microclimates Matter: Your specific location may differ from the zone average due to elevation, proximity to water, urban heat islands, or other local factors. Use these zones as starting points and adjust based on your observations.