Gardening Weather Guide — Plant by Temperature and Season

Know Your Frost Dates

The two most important dates for any gardener:

1. Last spring frost: The date after which frost is unlikely — safe to plant tender seedlings
2. First autumn frost: When the growing season ends for frost-sensitive plants

These dates vary by location and altitude. Check historical data for your area.

Planting by Temperature

Weather and Watering

Protecting Plants from Weather

Frost

• Cover with fleece, cloches, or old bedsheets before sunset
• Move pots to sheltered spots near walls (radiant heat)
• Water the soil — wet ground releases warmth overnight

Heat

• Mulch heavily (5-10cm) to retain soil moisture and cool roots
• Shade cloth over delicate plants during heat waves
• Water deeply in the early morning (not midday — evaporation wastes water)

Wind

• Stake tall plants before storms arrive
• Use windbreaks (hedges, fences, or temporary screens)
• Avoid planting delicate seedlings in exposed, windy spots

Heavy Rain

• Ensure good drainage — raised beds help
• Avoid walking on saturated soil (compaction)
• Check for disease after prolonged wet periods

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