Lots of rain and cool weather coming!

Question

I planted several flower seeds according to package in the middle of April. As well as some sprouts. Now unexpected cool weather and more than a weeks worth of rain is coming. What should I do to protect my seeds and sprouts?

Answer 1

You live in zone 6a. The average last frost date is between April 21-30.
These dates are guidelines and weather patterns can change how and when seeds and plants should be placed outdoors.

Heavy rain can certainly dislodge, wash away or cause seeds to die off.
The same can be said for small seedlings and even much larger established plants. Mother Nature can be harsh and this is a frustration to new and seasoned gardeners.

There are a few things you can do to try to protect your investment in the garden.
These links will help you.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/onion/onion-frost-cold-protection.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/protect-plants-in-freeze.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/tools/using-cloches-in-gardens.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/row-covers-for-garden-plants.htm

Try not to become to frustrated if you lose some of your plants. It’s very early in the season and you have plenty of time to get your garden going.
The soil needs to be at least 55 to 60 degrees for most seeds and plants to grow and do well, with the exception of cool weather crops like Peas.

A garden started later can and usually does better then a garden started in cold soil temperatures.