Three Chilly Saints of May – The Dakota Ghost of Winter Just Passed – Transplant Talk for Northern Gardens

Do you believe in the Iceman? I do.

The Farmer’s Almanac memorializes the week two May cold snap with a discussion of the Three Iceman; Saint Mammertius, Saint Panratius and Saint Gervatius. German, Swiss and French lore noticed this cold snap and assigned its reason to these Saints, who will not allow spring to advance without passing through the three cold plant-threatening days of May 11, 12 and 13.

Climate change may melt these frosty Saints, but not this year.

With the exception of last year, there has always been a cold snap between the 10th and 13th of May, here on the northern prairie. Stressful, sending gardeners running for blankets and checking the temperature at 5AM. As this spring is colder than usual, I will not consider transplanting my more tender plants outside until after May 15th. I have planted my tomatoes and peppers outside before then, successfully.

Not this year.

My typical cold-weather crops, brassica, greens, carrots and potatoes will be planted outside in the next day or so, taking advantage of some coming rain this weekend. Any plants sensitive to heat will need to wait. Do I have room for all these large plants inside or in the greenhouse? Not really, however I don’t really have a choice if I want to ensure a verdant summer garden.

Not sure I’ve yet to meet a gardener who doesn’t tests the limits of a warm spring. Yet, even the most seasoned of us northern gardeners need a reminder to tread carefully before putting our babies outside for good.

Cardinal transplant rule is to Always Check the Ten Day Forecast, but the Five Day is Better.

~

SOURCE:

https://www.farmersalmanac.com/who-are-the-three-ice-men-11048

The End

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