May 15 rule - have you actually ever lost a plant to frost?

So this whole "don't plant before May 15th" rule is something I struggle with. I'm cleaning my landscape and have a lot of work to do before we start planting again anyway. But at the rate I'm going, I probably will finish before May 1st and be able to start planting.

I know some people push this date... Have you? And have you ever lost a plant to the cold or frost that we get sometimes in April and early May?

I'm thinking that if I do plant or transplant things, maybe I'll just mulch it really well or wrap some bubblewrap around it if I know the cold is coming.

Re: May 15 rule - have you actually ever lost a plant to frost?

I've thrown old blankets and towels on my beds when there was danger of an overnight frost.
2 liter soda bottles with the bottoms cut off make good covers as well.

Have I lost anything - not that I can recall. I did have some frost damage to a lavender when I took the burlap wrap off too early, but nothing that a bit of trimming couldn't solve.

I probably won't be ready to plant until the end of April anyway, still have cleaning to do but vacation comes first.

Re: May 15 rule - have you actually ever lost a plant to frost?

basil

Re: May 15 rule - have you actually ever lost a plant to frost?

I've planted already...most people I know have also...depends on what you are planting....My friend planted full boom hydrangea and they died...
I told her to bring it in and then plant them in May sometime and it will survive....she did and its back to life ready to be taken outside later!

I've only planted bulbs that did not bloom yet.!

Re: May 15 rule - have you actually ever lost a plant to frost?

I pushed it and lost ... not from the cold, but the rain! Last year was SO rainy that I lost a lot, things looked straggly and really sad. I'll hold off this year even thought I REALLY want to.