Since the Farmers' Almanac 2024 spring predictions are rather bleak, gardeners are heeding the forecast and dishing out tips to keep crops safe.
The report covers all territories in the United States, and it appears there aren't many locations that will feel the warmth and sunshine anytime soon, despite what the calendar says. It's not the news those with a green thumb want to hear, but Mother Nature cannot be told what to do.
For those who are planning small garden ideas and want to get digging ASAP, keep these professional recommendations handy.
Gardeners' take on the Farmers' Almanac 2024 spring forecast
Before deciding what to plant in April, it's important to learn about the Farmers' Almanac 2024 spring predictions, which are a set of long-term weather predictions.
This year, the U.S. is expected to experience a "Polar Coaster Spring," meaning the majority of regions will be in for a cold, cloudy, and rainy season. The southeast and south central states will experience slightly better conditions, but even still, they're expected to encounter a slow warm-up, too, per the report.
A lot of us are already snagging raised garden beds, scooping up discounted bags of mulch — The Home Depot Spring Black Friday 2024 sale is underway, after all — and attempting to beautify outdoor spaces. But will the flowers and veggies be able to withstand the Polar Coaster weather?
Our gardening pros have dished out tips.
1. Don't jump the gun
It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of new gardening projects, but in certain cases, it might be best to wait or even tend to indoor plants a little while longer until the ground heats up properly.
"While nurseries are quick to display summer annuals and heat-loving vegetables, stick to natives," says Jen McDonald, plant expert and founder of Garden Girls. "Hold out until May, when you know that warmer conditions will support new growth."
The Farmers Almanac 2024 spring forecast makes summer annuals feel like a distant thought. But something like a Bromeliad Vriesea Evita Yellow from The Sill can keep gardeners happy while they wait for things to warm up.
2. Keep an eye on garden drainage
Digging and planting in the dirt, working with container gardens, and setting up a greenhouse all have one non-negotiable requirement in common.
"Proper drainage is essential for garden plants to succeed, and anticipating this prior to heavy moisture is key," says Teri Valenzuela, natural science manager at Sunday Lawn Care. "Make sure your garden set-up is designed to help soil drain properly so your plants aren’t waterlogged or flooded out."
And should weeds arise as a result of too much H20, products like Sunday's Weed Warrior Herbicide Spot Treatment will provide some maintenance.
3. Watch out for frost
Yes, it's spring, but that doesn't mean it can't still be freezing cold. Learn how to protect plants from frost and keep delicate petals healthy.
"Cover tender plants and new shrubs when you know that temperatures will dip," Jen recommends.
Likewise, Teri suggests wrapping things up or taking plants in the house in regions with late-season frost or strong spring storms.
"Avoid planting outdoors too early or bring plants into your home or garage to protect them from damage," she says. "For susceptible plants you can’t move, wrap them with breathable fabric before a cold snap or heavy storm.
A 30-pack of Jixloft's Garden Cloches for Plants on Amazon, or Walwe's Freeze Protection Plant Covers on Amazon are both good options for protecting plants from frost.
4. Know your gardening zone
Knowing what gardening zone you're in will help you determine what can be planted as a perennial vs. an annual and the best time to do so. Keep an eye on local forecasts to learn what is appropriate to plant around this time.
Jen is a garden expert and the co-founder of Garden Girls, based in Texas. She specializes in raised bed garden design and installation, and she is certified with the NPSOT, Native Pollinator Society of Texas, and as an Organic Garden Vegetable Specialist.
Teri is the natural science manager at Sunday Lawn Care, which will help you achieve the green lawn of your dreams without toxic chemicals.
Fingers crossed the season won't be a complete washout — there are plants and produce to tend to.
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