A "Hardiness Zone" is a geographic area defined by its climate, specifically the average minimum winter temperature. This classification helps gardeners and farmers determine which plants are most likely to thrive in their local environment. The zones are numbered from 1 to 13, with each zone representing a range of temperatures. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is a widely used reference that divides the United States into these zones. By knowing their zone, individuals can select appropriate plants, ensuring better growth and survival rates in their gardens or landscapes.