USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
The Plant Hardiness Zone Map is based on the average annual extreme minimum winter temperature, displayed as 10-degree F zones ranging from zone 1 (coldest) to zone 13 (warmest). Each zone is divided into half zones designated as ‘a’ and ‘b’. For example, 7a and 7b are 5-degree F increments representing the colder and warmer halves of zone 7, respectively. These designations serve as convenient labels and shorthand for communicating and comparing the extreme winter temperatures within the United States and Puerto Rico. Zone numbers are typically listed with the descriptions of perennial plants in catalogs and other sales information produced by commercial nurseries, plant suppliers, etc.
We in Middle TN are in Zones 7a and 7b.
Composting Best Practices Guide
Compost is a valuable soil-amendment product that can increase local environmental and social resilience. When compost is incorporated into local soils, it improves their ability to withstand floods and droughts, sequester carbon, filter pollutants, retain nutrients, and support local food production. If done in a way that directly engages and serves a local community, composting can help build local social capital and wealth.