The rich details and technical analytics present in this unique depiction differentiate to from other styles of cartographical pieces. The distinctive style is immediately recognizable and informs the viewer with historical data such as average rainfall as well as high and low-temperature records. These maps define thirteen zones and are widely used for gardening, landscaping, and agricultural purposes. The United States Department of Agriculture produces these maps annually, and the first official publication was completed in 1960. Though, attempts at creating a map of these zones have been attempted since 1927. Advances in meteorological technology along with other significant developments like computers, accurate digital thermometers, and satellite imagery would cause considerable gains in the development of these pieces, which were completely revamped in 1990. This depiction was completed after another overhaul by the Arbor Day Foundation in 2006 further altered the aesthetic and performed revisions based on current data. This map was also the first update since 2006 that increased the zones by two to reflect better definitions for tropical and semitropical plants and include Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Zone boundaries were also shifted in the 2012 publication to reflect changes to regional climates and seasonality. This publication is also interesting as the zones reflected higher temperatures; a half zone warmer than the 1990 map. These unique pieces of cartographical history are among some of the lesser-known works, though they offer an interesting perspective on changing weather patterns. They are also an invaluable tool for arborists and horticulturalists. Our museum quality giclee print comes printed with archival ink on premium heavyweight matte paper. Shipped in a cardboard tube your print will arrive ready to be framed. This eye-catching vintage map reproduction print makes the perfect gift for anyone that loves history.