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Frost and Freeze Watches and Warnings

Understanding frost and freeze warnings can help you better protect your plantings.

A frost advisory is usually issued when minimum temperatures between 33 to 36 degrees are expected. These continue in fall until a killing freeze ends the season and begin in spring with the growing season.

Frost is more likely on a clear night when the ground heat is lost to the atmosphere. It’s also common on still nights or when winds are light, allowing a layer of cool air to settle at the surface. Cool temperatures and moist conditions increase the risk of frost and freezing. And those low spots in your landscape are the first to be affected as cold air sinks.

A freeze watch is issued when a large area could potentially be hit with freezing temperatures within 24 to 36 hours. A freeze warning means freezing temperatures are expected to occur.

A bit more information: Visit the National Weather Service website to find the average first freeze and frost dates for your area. This can help you plan your planting dates, harvesting schedule and frost protection strategies.

Upcoming
Events & Webinars


August 6-16, 2026
Wisconsin State Fair
We Energies Energy Park, West Allis, WI
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August 29, 2026
Composting 102
Milwaukee Public Library - East Branch
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Sept. 3, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Tree Planting and Care
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Sept. 11, 2026
Illinois State Master Gardener Conference
Rockford, IL
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Sept. 12, 2026
2026 Knowledge in Bloom Conference
Urban Ecology Center, Milw., WI
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Sept. 17, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Fall Landscape Care and Planting

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Sept. 26, 2026
Pruning Hydrangeas & Other Shrubs
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL

Oct. 6, 2026
Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference
La Crosse, WI
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