Protecting your garden: Last frost dates

First and last frost dates are imperative for gardeners, but can you tell when the last frost will be this year?

Frost dates refer to days when temperatures fall sub-zero and conditions become cold enough to damage or kill your plants.

They are important to know, because although it is technically Meteorological spring now, spotting the first signs of spring-like weather, and consequently when to start seed plans, can be tricky to pinpoint.

Last frost dates are based on historically averaged temperatures, but are never a one size fits all scenario. The dates depending on your location's altitude, latitude and urbanisation, with dates ranging from end of March to mid-May.

While you can certainly search up the average last frost date, which is generally a ten day window, they are only an average and not a definitive. If you are worried about a frost after planting, you can use a fleece to protect your tender plants.

You could also add a layer of mulch to your vegetable garden, watering frequently, which will provide an added layer of warmth and natural frost protection.

Vegetables like lettuce, carrots, cabbage, spinach, and radishes are better at withstanding lower temperatures. Other, warmer-season crops like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers will likely struggle, so timing is imperative.

The rest of March looks to remain largely around or above average in terms of temperatures, though a cold spell towards the end of the month or early April is still possible.

If in any doubt, wait a few weeks after your area's average last frost date, to give your plants a stronger chance from an unexpected frost. Keep your eye on the TemperatureRadar up to four days ahead too!