Hardy perennials and hardy annuals can be planted out earlier, before last frost. They don't mind the cold.

Karen

Thanks, Karen - that should make my life MUCH easier in a few months!

Sandra

Yep. I started planting out perennials in February, as soon as I had sprouts and the second pair of leaves. They'll handle the weather fine as long as the ground isn't frozen, plant away.

February?! Is this what you guys refer to as "zone envy"?

It sure is. Last year was unusual in that we had a warm spell in January where the daytime temperatures were in the 60s. Sprouts started popping up all over. I have a feeling that this year, I won't be planting out til late March, if that early. The weather is being very uncooperative. Even in the hoophouse, it's only 53 degrees. Many seeds need 60-75 degree temperatures to germinate. Ideally, of course. There are lots of factors.