Gardening This Week? Watch Out For Heavy Rain, Late Freezes And Flooded Soil

As we say goodbye to April and prepare for the month of May to kick off, many gardeners across the country are ready to dig in. However, this week’s weather could throw a few surprises into those planting plans.

First, the good news: Most of the country is running warmer than average right now, giving gardens a nice early boost. However, a pocket of cooler air will drift from the Desert Southwest into the southern Plains by Tuesday. It won’t be a major cold snap - temperatures there will be pretty close to normal - but gardeners in places like Oklahoma and Texas might notice a bit of a chill compared to recent warmth.

Rain will be a bigger story. Heavy downpours are likely across the Plains and Midwest through midweek, especially in the southern Plains by Wednesday. So if you’re planning to plant new seeds or move tender plants outdoors in Oklahoma or Texas, it might be smart to wait until after the storms clear out. The rain then marches eastward, soaking the Ohio Valley on Thursday and the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast on Friday. Gardeners in these regions should keep an eye on the forecast and protect young plants from getting battered.

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Meanwhile, flooding remains a concern along the Mississippi River. Some areas are still in Major flood stage, and gauges in the lower Mississippi will be in moderate flood stage throughout the week. If you live near the river, be cautious - saturated soil can lead to root rot and other plant health issues.

Savvy gardeners should remember these three tips in the coming days:

1. Watch the Rain Forecast

If you’re in the Plains, Midwest, Ohio Valley, or Northeast, plan to plant after heavy rain passes. Wet soil can compact easily, making it tough for roots to grow.

New seedlings are delicate. If heavy rain is coming, cover them temporarily with overturned pots or lightweight row covers to prevent damage.

3. Take Advantage of the Warmth

For much of the country, warmer-than-average weather is a green light to direct sow fast-growing plants like beans, squash, and sunflowers (just make sure the soil isn’t too soggy first!)

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One last reminder: While most non-mountainous areas have seen their final snow of the season, parts of the Northern Tier and Interior Northeast are still in that tricky window before the average last spring freeze. If you live in those regions, it’s wise to keep frost cloth handy and wait just a little longer before planting those tender vegetables and flowers.

In short: May will soon be here, warmer days are ahead, but a little patience, and a lot of weather-watching, will go a long way this week.

Weather.com lead editor Jenn Jordan explores how weather and climate weave through our daily lives, shape our routines and leave lasting impacts on our communities.