A fast start to spring is here, but be careful getting spring planting fever too early!

Living in the midwest brings a wide range of weather, from bitter cold to blazing hot, and from severe weather to blizzards–we’ve got it all. 

By Hope Kleitsch

The transitional seasons, fall and spring, are when temperature swings are the most notable and extreme. You have probably noticed that one day it can be 70ºF and sunny, and then the very next can be 30ºF and snowing. In the springtime, many folks are eager to start planting and gardening, especially when the first stretch of nice, warm weather comes along. So, when is the typical last freeze of the year?

  • Indianapolis, Indiana
      • Earliest: March 23 (2017)
      • Average: April 16
      • Latest: May 27 (1961)
  • Peoria, Illinois
      • Earliest: March 22 (2017)
      • Average: April 14
      • Latest: May 25 (1925)
  • Des Moines, Iowa
      • Earliest: March 29 (1941 & 2010)
      • Average: April 17
      • Latest: May 29 (1947)
  • Kansas City, Missouri
      • Earliest: March 9 (2012)
      • Average: April 9
      • Latest: May 6 (1944)
  • Minneapolis, Minnesota
      • Earliest: April 7 (1955)
      • Average: April 23
      • Latest: May 23 (1963)
  • Bismarck, North Dakota
      • Earliest: April 20 (1948)
      • Average: May 14
      • Latest: July 6 (1884)
  • Sioux Falls, South Dakota
      • Earliest: April 6 (1977)
      • Average: May 3
      • Latest: June 7 (1897 & 1901)
  • Omaha, Nebraska
    • Earliest: March 29 (1941)
    • Average: April 21
    • Latest: May 15 (1983)

The last freeze of the season varies greatly year to year due to the ever changing weather patterns throughout the midwest. It is important to not get too ahead of yourself (and the season) when the weather turns warm. If you are already looking into planting for the season, here is how this spring is shaping up:

The Ohio Valley is expecting a later than normal last freeze, especially in eastern Ohio. A much later than normal last freeze is expected towards the lower northeast. The upper great plains are looking at warmer temperatures taking place, planning for an earlier than normal last freeze.