First and last frost dates (and why they matter)

First and last frost dates are two important considerations in every gardener’s calendar. Understanding these as part of your garden timing will help you avoid frost damage to your plants and flowers in the spring weather.

The first signs of spring can be difficult to navigate for many gardeners who are starting their seed plan. A great way to avoid any issues and prepare for this is knowing when to plant.

In many cases, this means getting plants in the ground when the average last frost date passes. This will change based on your area, but it is a crucial first step to ensure you enjoy a successful spring garden.

What is a frost date in gardening?

Frost dates refer to days when temperatures drop to 0°C or below, cold enough to damage or kill tender plants. Understanding these timelines and the average temperatures lets you know when the optimal growing season is. The last frost date in spring signifies the end of the cold snap and a good time to start your new garden (especially if you’re planting veggies).

Frost dates are important to note, as the first signs of spring can be difficult to spot for many gardeners who are starting their seed plan. A great way to prepare for this is by understanding when to plant.

In many cases, this means getting plants in the ground when the average last frost date passes. This will change based on your area, but it is a crucial first step to ensure you enjoy a successful spring garden.

Read on to understand more about frost dates and why they are important.

What is the first and last frost date?

The last frost date references the final spring frost in your location, while the first frost date signifies the beginnings of autumn frost. The date and temperature will vary greatly depending on your region and elevation. 

Whether you’re in an urban or rural environment also plays a role. Urban areas heat up quickly in spring, and as a result, the last frost dates can change by a few days or even a week. The following table shows the approximate range of last frost dates in the UK.

By getting the timing right, your initial plantings will be protected from cold temperatures, ensuring they have the best chance to not only survive but thrive.

Vegetables standing strong against winter chill. (Source: iStock)

How does the last frost affect vegetables?

The last frost date in Spring determines when the first seeds of your new plantings will germinate. During Spring, the nights reach temperatures too cold for new vegetable plants to survive in.

Spring crops like lettuce, carrots, cabbage, spinach, and radishes may be able to withstand colder temperatures. However, warmer-season crops, like cucumbers, tomatoes, and butternut squash or pumpkin, will struggle.

How do you find your specific last frost date?

Understanding first and last frost dates is much easier for gardeners today, thanks to the many online resources available. For example, Plant Maps offers the easiest way to understand your UK region’s average annual temperatures. The Met Office also provides historical weather data to help determine frost risk in your area.

Frost dates are based on historical averages, meaning unexpected frosts can still occur. To protect your plants, allow a little buffer time and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Frosty mornings challenge young plants. (Source: iStock)

How do you know when it's the last frost?

There are many online resources that will help you understand the first and last frost dates for your area. The National Weather Service and the Met Office often track this data as well. It is important to know that no matter where this information comes from, there can be a slight variation in the actual date due to changing and unpredictable weather patterns.

What plants are sensitive to frost?

Some plants are very sensitive to frost and may need extra protection. These include:

Fruits & Vegetables

• Avocados

• Citrus trees

• Tomatoes

• Pumpkins

• Sweet potatoes

• Cucumbers

• Okra

• Eggplant

• Corn

• Peppers

Plants & Flowers

• Fuchsia

• Bougainvillaea

• Begonias

• Impatiens

• Geraniums

• Succulents

• Tropical plants

If you plan on growing any of these, be sure to check your local last frost date to avoid damage.

Which crops and plants can withstand frost?

The UK climate allows for a variety of frost-hardy fruits, vegetables, and plants. These hardy varieties can extend your growing season and ensure a successful harvest even in colder months.

Fruits & Vegetables

• Carrots

• Broccoli

• Peas

• Brussels sprouts

Plants

• Heather

• Holly

• Yew

• Ivy

How can I protect my plants from frost?

Home gardeners can protect their plants from frost in several ways:

• Mulching: Organic mulch like straw or bark helps insulate the soil and retain warmth, protecting roots from frost.

• Frost covers or mini-greenhouses: Use horticultural fleece, cloches, or even old bedsheets as protective covers. Remove them during the day to allow airflow.

• Watering plants in the morning: Moist soil retains heat better, so watering before a frost can help keep roots warm.

• Using plastic bottles or containers: Covering small plants with plastic bottles can create a mini greenhouse effect, trapping warmth and shielding delicate leaves.

A warm garden is a happy garden

There are many different things to be aware of to ensure your garden thrives; it's one of the reasons why we have the gardening hub, a place for helpful resources to help you have the greenest of thumbs.

If you need an extra hand in the garden, plenty of Airtasker gardening experts could be of service. From general yard work to other outdoor areas that need attention like pool maintenance, there is always a Tasker ready and willing to help.