Plans for the garden? Beware of Jack Frost
Spring in the Maritimes has been slow to arrive this year, with temperatures hovering near seasonal norms and few warm weekends to enjoy. However, a much-anticipated warm-up is on the horizon, with temperatures expected to soar into the high teens and low to mid-20s over the next few days, peaking on Thursday.
While the warmer weather may have you itching to start planting in the garden, it’s important to remember that frost-sensitive plants should wait until after the average last frost dates in the second half of May for most of the Maritimes. Some areas may even experience frost as late as early June. Many gardeners adhere to the old adage of waiting until after the full moon in June to plant frost-sensitive crops, aligning nicely with historical last frost dates.
As for the upcoming forecast, temperatures are expected to cool back to seasonal levels over the weekend before dipping below average early next week as a system brings clouds and showers to the region. Long-range guidance suggests that temperatures will remain near to below average for the final stretch of May.
The good news is that the recent near seasonal temperatures and persistent rainfall have helped alleviate the dry conditions that persisted throughout the winter months. While parts of Nova Scotia, including eastern areas of the Annapolis Valley, are still experiencing abnormally dry conditions, the latest update from the Canadian Drought Monitor indicates an improvement in overall conditions. This is crucial for reducing the risk of spring wildfires and ensuring adequate moisture as we head into the drier summer months.
Looking ahead to summer, long-range climate models are predicting warmer than average conditions for June, July, and August across the Maritimes. This forecast bodes well for those looking forward to a sun-filled and warm summer season.
In conclusion, while spring may have been slow to arrive in the Maritimes, the upcoming warm-up and promising summer forecast are sure to lift spirits and get everyone excited for the months ahead. Remember to be patient with planting frost-sensitive crops and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons in this picturesque region.
