Today, March 20, is the vernal equinox – otherwise known as the first day of spring. According to Space.com, ‘What happens on March 20 is that the sun moves from south of the celestial equator to north of the equator. The days, which have been getting longer since winter solstice on Dec. 21, now equal the nights in length, which is why this is called the “equinox” — Latin for “equal nights.” ‘ 

Although we can see signs of spring all around us, don’t rush out to the garden center to stock up on tender annuals and veggies just yet. The average last spring frost date in Durham County is April 13th. A quick glance at a weather forecast for the next 5 days shows that below freezing temperatures are expected for 3 nights.

Hardier vegetables, such as greens, carrots, turnips, leaf lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes, and asparagus can be planted now. For more information on planting annual vegetables, fruits, and herbs, please see http://cals.ncsu.edu/hort_sci/extension/documents/AG-756.pdf

Happy spring!