Managing Inconsistent Temps in Early Spring

Spring weather can be unpredictable—warm and sunny one day, chilly and frosty the next. These temperature swings can stress young plants, slow growth, or even kill tender seedlings. Here’s how to keep your plants safe and thriving despite the rollercoaster of early-season weather.

Know Your Frost Dates & Watch the Forecast

• Find your area’s last expected frost date and plant accordingly.

• Use a weather tracking app to watch for sudden cold snaps.

• If a frost is expected, cover delicate plants overnight.

  
  

Protect Plants from Cold Stress

• Use cloches, row covers, or plastic tunnels to insulate young plants.

• Mulch around seedlings to retain warmth.

• If temperatures drop suddenly, cover plants with old blankets or sheets overnight and remove them in the morning.

Get creative and cover young plants with plastic deli containers, recycled water bottles, milk jugs or whatever you can find! Just make sure to secure your container with a garden staple or the like.

Hardening Off Transplants

• Gradually expose indoor-grown seedlings to outdoor conditions over a week.

• Start with 2-3 hours a day of outside time in a shaded area.

• Increase exposure daily before planting them permanently.

• Don't assume plants purchased at a store or nursery are hardened off - ask your vendor! Happy Place Plants are ALWAYS hardened off and ready to plant!

  
  

Combat Heatwaves & Sudden Warm Spikes

• If temps soar unexpectedly, provide temporary shade with fabric or shade cloth.

• Water early in the morning to reduce heat stress.

• Use mulch to prevent soil from drying out too fast.

Choose Hardy Plants for Unpredictable Weather

• Cool-season crops like kale, spinach, and peas can handle cold spells.

• Heat-tolerant plants like tomatoes, peppers, and basil need protection from early-season chill.

• If planting in containers, keep pots mobile so you can move them inside when needed.

  
  
  
  

Final Thoughts

Mother Nature is full of surprises, but with a little preparation, your garden can handle anything spring throws your way. Stay flexible, protect your plants when needed, and soon you’ll have a thriving veggie patch despite the ups and downs of early-season weather!