When to Plant (Stupid snow!)
I was very dismayed when I looked out the window this morning and saw big fat snow flakes coming down. The ground was covered in a matter of minutes. Being some one who absolutely loves the snow, I was awed and inspired, but at the same time frustrated. It just reminded me of how long I have to wait before I can begin to plant flowers and start on my vegetable garden. Being in Ohio, I have to wait until at least late April, but idealy it would be best to wait until May.
For those of you not in Ohio, planting times will vary very much on your climate. Experienced gardeners will already know the best times to plant in their area, but if you are just starting out, have just moved, have not had a garden in many years, or like me a combination of all of the above, then I highly recommend you look into the weather patterns and climates in your area. Most garden centers, at least the really good ones, will have all that info readily available. Obviously the warmer the climate, the sooner you can plant. But don’t jump ahead of your self. Just because you have a streak of warm weather, does not mean you should go ahead and plant. I’ve learned this the hard way in Ohio. We can have an entire week of 60 degree weather and then the next day it is snowing. (like today!) Check your forecast. Watch for frosty mornings. In addition, different plants have different ideal planting times. The easiest way to find this out, is to read the package!
If your like me and can’t wait, you can always start a tray of seedlings indoors two to three weeks before you plan to start your garden. Might be a littler more work than buying the ready made seedlings from your local garden center, but at least you can start tending a few weeks before you anticipated! In addition, it is usually a little cheaper to start your own seedlings. Not by much, since you might have a few that don’t spout, but every penny counts!
image from www.bcggallery.com
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POSTED IN: How to Grow Stuff, Uncategorized
2 opinions for When to Plant (Stupid snow!)
Kerri
Mar 4, 2007 at 9:55 am
Hey Rebecca! Just down the road from you a bit in Dayton, so I’m subscribing here. I’m gonna cheat and just plant as you go. :) Bald Man and I did our first vegetable garden last year, with mixed results, but very fun overall! I’ve already watched some daffodils start to sprout this year, only to get covered by inches of snow. Strange weather area we live in, aye? Looking forward to your posts and guidance!!!
William Lehman
Mar 4, 2007 at 11:51 am
yes, us Ohio bloggers have different ideas of sticking together huh? We are all married to each other. :P
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