Iowa gardeners have been on a roller coaster this spring, with record high temperatures followed by a blizzard in March, and a similar — though less drastic — situation on the way.
According to weather forecasts, temperatures that reached the 80s this week will dip below freezing this weekend.
The wild weather swings make the Czech legend of the Three Ice Kings especially timely.
Known under various names, including the Three Frozen Kings, the three icemen – tři ledovi muži – or Three Ice Saints, Three Frozen Men, Three Ice Kings and Three Iron Men, the legend warns against planting tender crops too early in case of a late frost.
According to the Czech lore, the three kings or saints – Pankrac on May 12, Servac on May 13 and Bonifac on May 14 – were frozen when temperatures dropped while they were fishing at sea.
On May 15, St. Zofie came along with a kettle of hot water to thaw out the three frozen kings.
That means gardeners should wait until May 15 to plant tender vegetables, such as peppers, tomatoes, squash and cucumbers.
Radishes and onions are among the early-season crops that can survive lower temperatures. (photo/Cindy Hadish)
Some Iowa gardeners time their planting to coincide with Mother’s Day, which falls this year on May 10.
Mid-April is generally an appropriate time to plant cool season vegetables, such as peas, carrots, radishes, lettuce, spinach and beets, which can be direct-sown by seed in the garden.
Perennials, such as daylilies, coneflower and hosta, can also be planted in mid-April in Iowa, and even if they have emerged from the ground, should survive a brief cold spell.
Flowers in bloom can be picked for a spring bouquet before the temperatures fall below freezing, as the blossoms might not survive a freeze.
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