Free Tools
Plant Climate Match
Pick your state (and adjust for your altitude) to see which of our plants will thrive, which need protection and which to skip.
Estimates for planning only. Microclimate, soil, irrigation and altitude matter: message us and we'll help you choose.
How the climate match works
Every plant we sell has a cold-tolerance rating: the lowest temperature it handles without serious damage. Durian and mangosteen suffer below about 10 °C; most citrus shrug off a light frost; jacaranda tolerates a few degrees below zero.
We compare that rating with the coldest nights typical of your state's main city, then check whether the plant suits your climate type: humid tropics, dry tropics, subtropical valleys, mild highlands or desert.
Mexico's altitude changes everything. Chiapas' lowlands are hot and humid while San Cristóbal sees frost; Guadalajara is mild while Puerto Vallarta never gets cold. Adjust the coldest-night value to match where you actually live.
Making “possible” plants work
Grow cold-sensitive trees in large pots and move them under a roof or against a warm wall on cold nights. Plant on the south or west side of buildings, avoid low frost pockets, and mulch generously.
In dry climates, tropical plants that want humidity do better with drip irrigation, mulch and partial afternoon shade.
Questions & Answers
Can I grow durian or mangosteen outside the tropics?
Only with great difficulty. Both need warm nights all year (above about 10 °C) and steady humidity. In cooler states, grow something like jaboticaba, finger lime or citrus instead, or keep a tropical tree in a heated greenhouse.
Which fruit trees handle frost?
Most citrus (especially kumquat, mandarins and calamondin) tolerate light frost, as do black mulberry, jacaranda and magnolia. Mango, avocado and sapote need protection from frost when young.
Is my state's value exact?
No. It is a typical cold-snap low for the main city. Your garden can be several degrees colder (valleys, altitude) or warmer (coast, near walls), so adjust it.
Related
- Orchard Planner & Tree Spacing Calculator
- How to Grow Exotic Fruit Trees in Mexico
- How to Plant a Tree That Arrives by Mail: Unboxing, Acclimatising and Transplanting
- Fruit Trees You Can Grow in Pots: Best Varieties for Patios and Balconies
- How to Grow Tropical Fruit Trees: Mango, Avocado, Mamey and Sapodilla