Book 29, Question 8
Why does the last frost date matter to gardeners?
Frost can kill tender plants like tomatoes, peppers, and basil.
The last frost date is the average date after which frost is unlikely in your area. In much of southern Ontario, that's around mid to late May. Gardeners wait until after this date to put out tender plants, or they cover them when frost is predicted. Weather is not always average, so watch forecasts too.
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Quick answers
Why does the last frost date matter to gardeners?
The last frost date should be used for planning when to plant tender annuals.
Plant after the last frost or if starting by seed, start indoors six to eight weeks before the average last frost date.
Sources: Penn State, University of Wisconsin
More fun facts
- Average last frost dates range from early May in southern Minnesota to late May or early June in northern areas.
Sources: University of Minnesota