Warm weather tempts NJ gardeners, but experts urge patience before planting
Early spring sunshine is drawing gardeners outdoors across New Jersey, but lingering frost risks mean waiting a few more weeks could protect plants—and pay off in the long run.
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Warm temperatures across New Jersey are giving many residents the urge to start planting, but experts say it may be too soon to dig in.
At Orange Garden Center, owner Artie Miller says the recent stretch of sunny weather has already brought in eager customers.
“We’re a weather-related business, so when that sun is out people are going to come in,” Miller said. “The warmer it is, the more people want the stuff.”
Still, he cautions gardeners to keep one key factor in mind: the final frost of the season. A single cold night can damage—or even kill—many plants.
Frost timing varies across the state. Southern New Jersey, including Cape May and Atlantic County, typically sees its last frost in early to mid-April. Central regions tend to follow in mid to late April, while northern areas like Sussex and Morris counties may not be frost-free until early to mid-May.
“Anything can happen—I’ve seen snowstorms in the beginning of April,” Miller said. “If you want to be completely safe, wait until Memorial Day. By Mother’s Day, you should be OK.”
For those eager to get started, there are still some safe options. Hardy annuals like petunias, snapdragons, dusty miller and pansies can tolerate cooler temperatures. Cold-weather herbs, ornamental grasses and perennials are also good choices for early planting.
Miller adds that gardeners can take precautions if temperatures dip, such as bringing plants indoors or shielding them from wind for a night or two.
And for anyone itching to work outside now, he says this is actually the ideal time to focus on lawn care.
“This time of year—crabgrass preventer, lime, fertilizer—you can work on your lawn,” Miller said. “You can mulch your beds. That’s something a lot of people are doing.”
For now, experts say patience and preparation are key. When it comes to spring planting in New Jersey, timing can make all the difference.
