Katherine Clarkson

Springtime in Wyoming often feels like a tug-of-war between winter and summer. One day temperatures climb into the 50s or 60s, and the next day snow and freezing temperatures return. Flower buds enlarge, the grass turns green, and a few flowers emerge. However, a subsequent drop in temperature below freezing may cause damage or the death of those early growth indicators.

Warm temperatures signal to plants that it is time to grow. When soil warms, and days get longer, plants move water and nutrients through their stems and buds. If a hard freeze occurs afterward, the tender fresh growth is especially vulnerable. Fruit trees and early flowers are particularly sensitive. If temperatures drop into the 20s those buds can freeze, reducing or eliminating fruit production later in the season. The following are common signs of freeze damage:

Freezing temperatures may affect plants and gardeners by blackened or wilted leaves, soft or mushy stems, dropped buds or flowers and discolored patches on leaves. While plants sometimes recover once temperatures warm again, severe damage can slow growth for weeks. Fortunately, there are several ways gardeners can help protect plants during our unpredictable spring weather.

You can cover plants at night. Lightweight blankets, sheets or frost cloths can protect plants from cold air. Cover plants in the evening and remove the coverings during the day so they receive sunlight. You can also apply a layer of mulch around your plants. This helps regulate soil temperature and protects roots from sudden cold snaps. In addition, water the soil. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil. Watering plants during the day before a chilly night can help keep roots warmer. Be careful not to give it too much water. You should water at most twice a month. Also, choose hardy plants. Cold-hardy flowers and vegetables such as pansies, kale, spinach and peas tolerate cooler temperatures and are better suited for early spring planting.

While warm spring days can be tempting for eager gardeners, patience is often the best strategy in Wyoming’s climate. The region’s last frost date falls between late May and early June, meaning freezing temperatures can still occur long after the first warm days of spring. By monitoring the forecast and protecting plants during frosty nights, gardeners can help their gardens survive spring’s unpredictable weather and enjoy a healthy growing season ahead.

Thank you for reading and if you have any questions or comments, please reach out to me at: katherineclarkson2@gmail.com

(Katherine Clarkson is the president of the Park County Master Gardeners. She lives in Wapiti.)