
For avid gardeners, the first blip of chilly fall weather may not be as exciting as it is for most. However, for green thumbs, you can be prepared. There’s a way to anticipate the first freeze of fall.
The return of spooky season and cooler weather can be a joyous occasion, as some people are clearly clamoring for with the early release of pumpkin spice food and Halloween decor. But as soon as temps fall below 36 degrees, your plants will be screaming. Thankfully, Better Homes & Gardens created a handy map that showcases where each region of the United States can anticipate seeing its first frost. Dates range from as early as June 30 for higher elevations, but frost will mostly begin in September.

If you want something a bit more detailed, there’s also a frost date calculator from the National Gardening Association that utilizes your zip code. If you really want to protect your plants this fall, calculate your date now, and mark your calendar.