Frost-date pages show probability tables at all three thresholds (28°F, 32°F, 24°F). Use 32°F for sensitive transplants, 28°F for the agricultural standard, 24°F for tree-crop dormancy planning.
Frost Dates & Planting Timing
What is a killing frost vs. a light frost?
A killing frost is 28°F or below — kills most annual plants and damages woody perennials. A light frost is 29-32°F — damages tender vegetation but doesn't kill cold-hardy plants. A hard freeze is 24°F and below — kills nearly everything not specifically winter-hardy.
More from Frost Dates & Planting Timing
- When is the last frost date in my area?
- What is the difference between a hardiness zone and a frost date?
- What does 50% frost probability mean?
- When is it safe to plant tomatoes outside?
- How do I use frost probability tables for planting decisions?
- Can I plant earlier using row cover?
- How do I protect plants from a late spring frost?
- What crops can survive a frost?
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