Frost Dates For Garden Plants

Every consideration should be given to plants during frost times, and it depends on when a garden should start its plants. It is best to plant many plants when the last frost passes, which is usually in the last winter. Early spring may sometimes constitute the last frost date, especially since there has been so much chaotic weather. Planters should base gardening times on the temperate instead of focusing on the season. During the morning, there should be no leftover frost on the morning grass. Any layer of frost is not a good time to start growing new plants. 

Many plants are not suited to withstand any cold weather, and new plants that have to withstand morning frost may have a more challenging time growing. To know the best time to garden, it is best to have a good sense of the weather. You can check your local weather or place an outside garden thermometer to get an accurate temperature reading. A temperature garden is the most direct way of getting a sense of the local climate in your area.

For light freezes, this can range anywhere from 29-32 degrees Fahrenheit. It is at this temperature that fragile plants can freeze to death. Those who plant to grow starter trees or plant seeds in the ground should avoid planting during these temperatures and wait until the climate is warmer. That is not to say that more entrenched plants will die off, but gardeners should avoid planting new items during this freezing range.

A moderate freeze ranges anywhere from 25-28 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, most plants will have a hard time surviving. That will have a devastating effect on many vegetables and fruit gardens. Some fruits and veggies can withstand this cold, and it is always best to do the necessary research to find out. Hardened veggies and fruits such as carrots or watermelon are more suited to adapt to colder climates because of their hardened exterior. Still, it is always best to conduct the necessary research.

Anything 24 degrees or lower will cause damage to most plants, and it is necessary to cover many plants with a tarp to protect them from the cold. There are also natural sprays that will make plants more suited to the cold. Either way, gardeners should avoid using any plants during this temperature range.