Gardening 101:: Zoning

The US Department of Agriculture produces a Zoning Map of all States in the US. This map serves as a guide for the best time to start planting seeds in North America;  other Countries have similar maps as well.

For example, in the map below you will notice certain locations/regions are grouped by color.  The color groups are called Zones.  Can you spot your zone in the map below? I'm in Zone 7.

Knowing your Zone will help you determine the best time to start planting for successful harvest.  The next time you purchase seeds or a plant look at the tag or instructions and you will see zoning guidelines for planting included. For example, see the package seed package below including a zone map and planting guide for when to start sowing.



Notice on the label instructions that for the same package of seed, the recommended planting time varies depending on your zone. Zone often is predicated on the seasonal changes and the timing that they will occur for each region.

 Exploring Life Lessons on Zoning:

Every person is in a different Zone phase of life (Age, Finances, Relationships, Career, Health, Spiritual, Education, Parenting, Hobbies, Personal Aspirations etc).

• Each person will advance in a certain area faster than others. The best time for one person is not necessarily the best time for you.
• You will grow and advance too, it just means that your time will come in a different season stage/phase when the conditions are more favorable for you to thrive based on your own unique circumstances. 
• Seek out and Follow Label Instructions wise counsel on the areas of life that you would like to improve/grow in.
• Attend a financial management seminar or read up and apply the principles as prescribed for debt reduction and savings.
• Read the bible and/or spiritual enlightening books or listen to your favorite teacher/preacher of the gospel for guidance and instructions on growth and maturity in Christian living.
• Attend a resume writing workshop and practice your interviewing skills or seek a mentor for Career advancement.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 There is a special time for everything.There is a time for everything that happens under heaven. There is a time to be born, and a time to die;a time to plant, and a time to pick what is planted.