Is it safe to go outside today?

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map 

I had a friend here in Atlanta decide to take advantage of a beautiful, sunny day we were lucky to have in February.  She decided to go ahead and enjoy the great weather by planting some flowers.  No!  It's not safe to go outside to plant yet.  Mother Nature has a way to tricking us here in Atlanta with nice weather early, and then surprises us with a late freeze. 

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is divided up into 11 climate zones.  This gives the gardener a guideline on when the safe time to plant your flowers and shrubs.  Atlanta is located in Zone 7B.  According to this zone map, April 15th (today) is the designated timeframe for being safe to go outside. Before you plant that favorite shrub or flower, you might to be sure to check your area for what zone you are located in. 

This is ONLY a guideline to follow.  Sometimes Mother Nature can have the last laugh.  The expected low for tonight is 29 degrees.  You may not want to plant until next week.