While it may still be too chilly to plant a vegetable garden outdoors in the northern regions, the South is perfect for planting from the end of March to the end of April. Understanding your hardiness zone and local climate is crucial for a thriving garden, but daily weather conditions also play a significant role in determining the best time to start planting.
This weekend, the South is expecting severe weather, making it less than ideal for gardening. With heavy rain, hail, strong winds, and even tornado threats in the forecast, it’s best to avoid outdoor planting to prevent damage to young plants from severe weather or waterlogging due to excessive rain. If your garden is already planted, ensure that your plants are properly supported with stakes before the storms hit and assess the garden’s drainage.
Consider gently aerating the soil around your plants with a pitchfork or garden fork, as recommended by Good Housekeeping. Some gardeners use storm covers to protect their plants. For potted plants outdoors, it’s advisable to move them indoors to prevent damage from strong winds.
In the Midwest and Northeast, starting seedlings indoors is common practice, with outdoor exposure recommended on warm, sunny days to promote growth and acclimate the plants to varying environmental conditions. However, stormy weather is expected in the Midwest this weekend, so it’s best to keep the seedlings indoors.
The Northeast will experience pleasant temperatures over the weekend, allowing for outdoor exposure during the day. Remember to bring the plants indoors before nighttime temperatures drop. Stormy weather will arrive in the Northeast on Monday, prompting the need to keep plants indoors for protection.
As the season progresses, conditions will become more favorable for planting shrubs, vegetable gardens, and flowering plants. Waiting a few weeks before planting won’t hurt, regardless of your location. Always check the local weather forecast before proceeding with your gardening plans.
