Finally I can make this post! It does appear that frosts have subsided until the Fall and it is now safe to put in your tender veggies without having to cover them. Temperatures this morning were in the upper 30’s, and this will likely be one of the last times this May that we see temps in the 30’s. Veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans are now safe to transplant or plant seeds. This weekend temperatures will support planting of things like watermelon & cantaloupe as we push into the mid 80’s on Sunday. Soil temperatures will quickly rise and the growing season will kick off quickly. Below you can see the most recent European model temperature spread.
Heat Returns
The heat will finally return to begin this weekend, and it doesn’t appear as though it will subside either. We may have cool downs to look forward to over the next 5 months, but the chance for freezes greatly diminishes. Temperatures this weekend could push into the upper 80’s and that will really increase soil temperatures. Let’s take a look at the most recent GFS model run with special eye on the long range where temps go close to 90 degrees.
Cooler Weather Remain Until Wednesday
Overcast skies will keep the area much cooler tomorrow, but you still should be ok to begin planting your plants today since a frost is not expected. Temperatures will only push close to 50 degrees tomorrow, but after that warmer afternoons are in store. Below you can see the most recent GFS model showing temperatures for tomorrow.
High Heat Expected Sunday
Sunday will be a day where it feels like summer-time around WNC. I expect temperatures to push into the mid to upper 80’s with plenty of sunshine. It will be a great day to get outside for a hike, or to work in your garden! Scattered showers can also not be ruled out on Friday & Saturday or Monday & Tuesday either of next week, but these will be driven by daytime sunlight. Below you can see the projected temperatures for Sunday afternoon per the GFS.