After such high temperatures this summer, it's no surprise that the Farmers' Almanac fall weather forecast predicts some extreme cold temperatures this winter. With the fall equinox falling on 2 September 2025, now is the time for gardeners across the US to start thinking about the frost, early snow, and heavy rainfall expected for the incoming cold season.
It would be a mistake to only assess your fall gardening checklist once the season arrives, as those cold snaps can sneak up on you. Instead, a trusted source of long-range US and Canada weather predictions, Farmers' Almanac, suggests getting to grips with their extended fall forecast for 2025 now and being proactive to prepare your yard.
'From early chills in the North to lingering warmth in the South, and from stormy skies to tranquil stretches, this fall will keep us on our toes,' it states. Here's what the weather predictions could mean for your garden, and what you can do to ensure your plants make it through the fall season unharmed.
Thunderstorms could wipe out planting
As we jump into the fall months, harsh weather is forecast for the Eastern states of the US.
'Labor Day weekend brings a mix of weather, with thunderstorms threatening parts of the Northeast and Southeast,' the Farmers' Almanac reports.
'The Midwest and West [will] enjoy clearer skies. The month continues with a tug-of-war between fair weather and storm systems, including a notable hurricane threat along the Atlantic Seaboard in early September.
'Severe thunderstorms and even tornado potential loom over the central states, particularly the Ohio Valley and the Plains,' it continues.
So, if you live within the region threatened with thunderstorms, it's key to get ahead with protecting plants from a storm.
This includes protecting them from strong winds and protecting plants from heavy rain, both of which can snap stems and oversaturate roots.
Consider staking plants (such as with these plant supports from Amazon) and even moving container plants inside a greenhouse for protection.
Clean up debris that may fly around in strong winds, potentially damaging plants and infrastructure.
Early snow calls for proactive frost protection
The Farmers' Almanac notes that as October comes around, 'the Northeast and Great Lakes regions begin to flirt with early snow, especially in higher elevations.'
This early first frost is worth being proactive about if you don't want to lose all of your planting.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to protect plants from frost. This includes using these cloches from Amazon, mulching, and moving more tender plants under shelter. You can even use bed sheets to protect plants from frost.
When it comes to removing snow from plants, though, be aware that light layers can actually provide insulation. Heavier snow, however, may snap branches and stems and may be worth brushing off.
The Farmers' Almanac continues: 'November brings the first real taste of winter for many. Snow becomes more frequent in the Rockies, Plains, and Great Lakes, with wet snow even reaching parts of the Northeast.'
FAQs
Can I still divide my perennials this fall?
Yes, you can still divide plants this fall to propagate them. It's best to do this before frost (so the plants can establish roots), which the Farmers' Almanac's extended fall forecast 2025 notes could be early in some regions. For this reason, it's best to keep an eye on your local frost forecast and get your dividing done beforehand.
If you're gardening on a budget or simply don't want to invest lots of money into tools to keep your garden safe this fall, read our guide on cheap ways to protect plants from frost and snow – many of the solutions just require repurposing items you likely already have.
