Not even two weeks after the “master” weather predictor tells us all it will be more winter, and we are in the middle of full on spring weather. Daily highs in the mid-40s. We almost hit 50 degrees yesterday!
The problem is our nightly lows are still mid-20s. So, I keep waiting for the other shoe to fall and inches more of snow.
But there are a few advantages to a false spring that we can use. Especially before the muddy season.
- Rotating compost – it’s easily to rotate your compost pile when it’s not a swamp.
- Freshening deep bedding – It might be a good time to clear out and put down a fresh layer of bedding in the coop or barn. Especially if it’s been moist in there.
- Pre-spring cleaning – At the mid-40s, you can almost open a few windows and get some fresh air. Which is great for cleaning and dusting. Plus, if you do it now, you have more time for gardening in spring.
- Seed starting – Save some energy starting seedlings in a warm window instead of grow lights.
Seems like a pretty good deal when nature gives us a small boost. Yet there are a few problems to be aware of.
- A light winter makes for potentially worse bug seasons. We have already seen more wasps coming out, which means we failed to get cold enough to control their population. I also saw a post the other day of someone who found their first tick of the year.
- Warm days can confuse your fruit trees. They may start to bud early and then get damaged by late poor and cold weather. Take precautions to ensure any fruit or ornamental trees are protected if you want a strong harvest in the summer and fall.
- It’s also important to be mindful of your animals. A false spring can cause them to shed winter coats early, leaving them colder at night. If you do decide to rotate bedding, be sure to leave them ample to cover or nest into.
A false spring may seem annoying. I know it sometimes makes me want to get out and start everything right now. Instead of getting out and doing everything now, picking and choosing the battles is a smarter move.
Not only can we get a head start on mud season, but we can also create space in a cramped spring schedule when timing matters most.
For those still buried in winter, keep warm. For the rest of us, seize your false spring!