When to plant?

[Nemo13]

Does anyone have any ideas of how early you can begin planting aquatic plants specifically pickerel and Cardinal flower in zone 5/6

 

[Mmathis]

No idea, but I go by when my regular plants are starting to green up. I’m in zone 8, and we’ve had “planting weather” for the past few weeks.

 

[Nemo13]

Okay because a lot of the plant nurseries don’t want to ship till the end of May and I wasn’t sure if this is more about it actually being to cold or just them being extra cautious in case of an unexpected cold snap. I will definitely wait a few more weeks but no all the way till May.

 

[BKHpondcritters]

Generally your nurseries aren't going to ship until closer to the average last frost date in your area. Even for hardy plants, if they have been acclimated to & started growing in a greenhouse (rather than being subjected to 'normal' Spring fluctuations of temperature) the foliage may be more tender than normal & could suffer damage in a late cold snap. Although, cardinal flower & pickerel rush are pretty darn tough, so I wouldn't be as worried about them.

 

[Nemo13]

Okay that makes sense