Do Warm Temperatures Mean Earlier Gardening?

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If the unseasonably warm weather has you feeling ready for an early spring, you’re not alone.

Green thumbs everywhere are wondering if the change in temperatures is a sign to break out their gardening tools.

Research shows flowers are blooming earlier than usual due to rising temperatures brought on by climate change, with examples ranging from this year’s cherry blossoms to dozens of plant species in Europe.

(MORE: Is Spring Arriving Early?)

So what does that mean for you and your garden? Here’s what you need to know:

It’s All About Soil

Experts say soil temperature is the most important thing to consider when timing your gardening. Most summer plants prefer soil temperatures between 55 and 65 degrees, according to specialists at the University of California. They say planting too early in cooler temperatures can stunt plant growth, prevent root development and make your plants more vulnerable to disease.

If you don’t have a soil thermometer, experts at the University of Illinois say, ideally, you should wait until the outside air temperature is consistently above 50 degrees. Meteorologists warn that even if daytime temperatures feel springlike, your area could still see significant cold snaps at night, so pay attention to the daily lows.

(MORE: Why Spring Is The Most Volatile Weather Season)

Here’s Our Take

From weather.com senior digital meteorologist Jonathan Erdman: “As a Midwest native, I get itchy for sustained warm weather every March and April. It's my most frustrating time of year, weather-wise. You get that one, maybe two-day tease of warmer weather, only to be corrected by a classic spring cold front. I understand people wondering about early planting given the recent winter record warmth and our March outlook. But history has shown even an overall warm spring is likely to include at least brief cold blasts of air into April. So, I'll still wait to plant anything until May, per usual around here.”

(MORE: Why Record Warm February Has A Direct Tie To El Niño)

Do Your Research

It’s important to note that the “right” temperature depends on what you’re planting. Cool-season vegetables like lettuce and carrots will fare better if planted too early, while warm-season crops like tomatoes and watermelon are a lot more finicky.

In the same vein, there are several types of flowers that thrive in cooler weather and are considered early spring bloomers, but they need to be planted in the fall.

For lawn care, your watering schedule may not be determined by the weather at all. It can instead depend on the type of grass you have, soil conditions, shade cover, fertilization and other factors.

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