Here’s When Michigan Could Get the First Frost of the Season

Is there a more respected psychic than the Farmers Almanac? The authors may not outwardly claim to be but, there has got to be a crystal ball in the back of a barn somewhere. We wouldn't put this much stock in any other predictor of the future.

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Sure we may judge how long a Michigan winter will be based on how big the black stripe on a wooly bear's back is, and when it will end by whether or not a groundhog sees its shadow. So putting our faith in the predictive powers of farmers is a pretty logical leap to make.

Michigan's First Frost of the Season By Region

According to the Farmers Almanac, using historic averages, here is when Mitten State will get its first frosty coating:

• Cheboygan, Michigan
  • First fall frost is predicted for October 4th
  • Last spring frost is predicted for May 18th
• Detroit, Michigan
  • First fall frost is predicted for October 24th
  • Last spring frost is predicted for April 27th
• Grand Rapids, Michigan
  • First fall frost is predicted for October 5th
  • Last spring frost is predicted for May 14th
• Marquette, Michigan
  • First fall frost is predicted for October 15th
  • Last spring frost is predicted for May 15th

Now, as to how severe the frost will be on those dates is another story. You may be unaware, but there are actually 3 different types of frost according to the Farmers Almanac:

• Light freeze: 29 degrees F to 32 degrees F – tender plants killed, with little destructive effect on other vegetation.
• Moderate freeze: 25 degrees F to 28 degrees F – widely destructive effect on most vegetation, with heavy damage to fruit blossoms and tender and semi-hardy plants.
• Severe freeze: 24 degrees F and colder – damage to most plants.

Remember, these are predictions based on averages, so they are not written in stone. But if you happen to see someone wearing a John Deere hat, bib overalls, and carrying a crystal ball, you may want to ask them. Chances are they work for the Farmers Almanac.