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Midwest Gardening

Thawing frozen ground

19 years ago

I need to dig a post hole this weekend but the ground is well frozen. Any suggestions on how to thaw a spot large enough to dig with a post hole digger?

Yes, I know, totally wrong time of year for this....but it's unavoidable. The snow plow came through this week and broke my mailbox post so I have to put in a new one.

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Comments (3)

webkat5
19 years ago
You could try a glass cold frame over the area....if there is enough sunlight, this will heat the area by about 20Âº.

Or, slowly pouring hot water on the area....
motria
19 years ago
Can you wait a week? Starting Monday, it'll get above freezing and about 40-ish in the latter part of the week.. that's the Chicago forecast, at least. Good luck!
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Carol_Ann
19 years ago
Or use a temporary post? There are some that come with a concrete cone for a base that just sit on the ground... you probably already have your hole dug but just in case you're looking for options I thought I'd throw that out....

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