Climate Zones in British Columbia

Microclimates are pockets that differ significantly from an area’s overall climatic zone. They can be created by features that modify climate, such as protected spots, exposed areas, elevation, north/south facing slopes, walls and canyons.

Microclimates allow you to grow plants that would not normally grow in your area. Ask garden centre staff how to protect plants that may be marginal in your zone. You can also refer to Canada’s plant hardiness site from Natural Resources Canada for more details on your specific area in B.C.

Here’s a quick overview of different microclimates and B.C. climatic zones.

Zones

• Zone 0: below -45°C
• Zone 1: -45°C
• Zone 2: -45°C to -40°C
• Zone 3: -40°C to -35°C
• Zone 4: -35°C to -29°C
• Zone 5: -29°C to -23°C
• Zone 6: -23°C to -18°C
• Zone 7: -18°C to -12°C
• Zone 8: -12°C to -7°C
• Zone 9: -7°C to -1°C

B.C. Regions

• Lower Mainland: Zone 7/8
• Vancouver Island: Zone 8
• Sunshine Coast: Zone 7/8
• Okanagan Valley: Zone 4/5
• Prince George: Zone 3
• Prince Rupert: Zone 6/7
• Peace River area: Zone 2

This story was originally published in 2007 and has since been updated.