As the Lake Country area enters into the second half of April, it’s beginning to look a lot more like spring. The grass is getting greener, the snow has entirely melted, and small buds can be seen on tree branches. In some areas, daffodils have already popped up with their bright yellow blooms on display for everyone to enjoy. As the dreams of warmer weather come true, many in southeastern Wisconsin are preparing their gardens. The best way to ensure the successful planting and growth of vegetation is by keeping an eye on frosts. Wisconsin’s weather is rarely predictable, so this is an essential tool for success. However, there are some key facts to keep in mind to start off your garden right.
Late April is often the best time to start planting cool season crops directly into the ground. Cool season crops include:
- Beets
- Carrots
- Lettuce
- Parsnips
- Peas
- Turnips
- Spinach
- Radishes
These can be planted after the last of the frosts. As soon as the soil outside has begun to thaw and the earth is workable, it is safe to plant these vegetables outside.
In early May, vegetable gardens can start having broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and onions planted outside. In late May, the seeds for Brussel sprouts, cucumbers, and water melon can be planted directly outside. At that same time, plants such as celery, tomatoes, egg plants, and peppers can be transported into outside gardens.
The best way to know if and when plants are ready to be transported outside is by checking the temperature of the soil. Once it reaches 60 degrees, it is safe enough for effective and safe transportation. This usually happens in the last week in May or the first week in June.
The best time to start planting annual flowers is usually in mid-May. By this time, there is less of a risk of frost and flowers will most likely have enough sun, water, and warmth to grow and bloom. For shrubs and other small trees, April and May are both good times to plant. During these months, the soil is often loose and easy to work with, meaning that plants have a higher likelihood of taking root.
Historically, the final frost dates in Wisconsin are usually sometime between April 15 and May 6. Keeping this in mind, wise planters will do their best to stay aware of the weather and play close attentions to the soil and the type of plants they are working with. Happy gardening!
