Last week, I got an email inquiring about “last spring frost dates.” At first, I thought this guy is really too early, then I read more:
“Hi Cindy. When I read the directions on my seed packages, they suggest I start six to eight weeks prior to the last frost of the season. Can you give an approximate time of the last frost to assist in my planting? Sincere thanks, Kevin, Gold River, N.S.”
Great question Kevin and as it turns out, very timely.
On average, the last frost in the Gold River area occurs between May 11 and May 20. Kevin can plant those seeds anytime now.
If you’re starting seeds indoors, have a look at the list of “average last frost dates” for a sampling of locations across Atlantic Canada.
NOVA SCOTIA
- Yarmouth: May 1
- Halifax: May 6
- Kentville: May 16
- Shelburne: May 16
- New Glasgow: May 18
- Sydney: May 24
NEW BRUNSWICK
- Saint John: May 18
- Bathurst: May 19
- Fredericton: May 20
- Grand Falls: May 24
- Moncton: May 24
- Edmundston: May 28
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
- Summerside: May 9
- Charlottetown: May 17
- Tignish: May 23
NEWFOUNDLAND/LABRADOR
- Corner Brook: May 22
- St John’s: June 2
- Grand Falls-Windsor: June 4
- Labrador: June 16
Calculations are one thing, experience is another. Many people believe you do not put any delicate plant material outside until after the last full moon in June. Last year, as you may recall, that would have been very wise.
This year, the full moon for that month is on June 17.
Happy garden preparation!
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Cindy Day is the chief meteorologist for SaltWire Network.
