Subtropics

What Are the Subtropics?

The subtropics are warm places on Earth that sit between the hot tropics and the cooler temperate zones. They are found about halfway between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn and go up to about 35° north and south of the equator. These areas often have gentle, calm winds called the horse latitudes.

Weather in the Subtropics

Subtropical places usually have hot summers and mild winters. There are two main kinds of weather there. One type, called humid subtropical, has rainy summers, like in Southeast China and the Southeastern United States. The other type, called Mediterranean climate, has dry summers and rainy winters, like in the Mediterranean Basin and Southern California.

Plants and Farms

The subtropics are great for growing many tasty plants. You can find palms, citrus fruits, mango, pistachio, lychee, and avocado trees growing happily there. Farmers also grow crops like apple, pear, and pomegranate. The warm winters help these plants stay healthy.

Where You Can Find Subtropics

Subtropical zones are all around the world. You can find them in places like Southern Africa, South America, Japan, and even in high areas inside the tropics, such as the southern part of the Mexican Plateau and Da Lat in Vietnam. These places each have their own special weather and plants that make them unique.