Weather experts at the Farmers' Almanac predict a severe forecast for fall 2025 — protect your plants before it's too late

Tom's Guide

15 hours ago

At a time when we're experiencing heatwaves in the U.S., it seems out of kilter that the Farmers' Almanac is predicting colder than usual temperatures this winter. But at a time when we're experiencing the effects of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns, it's good to know what lies ahead.
And, as all experienced gardeners appreciate, it's never too early to prepare and protect your yard from the forthcoming weather conditions, whatever they may be.
With the fall equinox a month away, on September 2nd, now is an ideal time to start planning for the colder season and frosts, early snow, and heavy downpours that the weather experts at the Farmers' Almanac predict.
Although some might turn to folklore to predict the weather — apparently a ring around the moon predicts bad weather — a far more reliable source is the Farmers' Almanac. However, in its early days, it started by using weather tips from farmers, rather than the more scientific methods it uses today.
Now, it provides a much more reliable and trusted source of long-range weather forecasts in the U.S. and Canada, and offers upcoming weather patterns to help farmers and gardeners plan for planting crops and tending to plants.
What's more, right now you can check its Extended Fall Forecast for 2025, to help you plan your garden jobs and prepare your yard for the weather ahead. The fall forecast predicts cooler weather, thunderstorms and snow, but whether you'll be affected depends on your location.
The Farmers' Almanac states, 'As summer fades and the crispness of autumn settles in, Fall 2025 is shaping up to be a season of contrasts across the United States,' adding, '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.'
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Here's what the Farmers' Almanac predicts from September through to November.
As we launch into fall, the Farmers' Almanac reports that Labor Day brings a mix of weather with thunderstorms threatening parts of the Northeast and Southeast, while the Midwest and West 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,' it states.
And it predicts, 'Severe thunderstorms and even tornado potential loom over the central states, particularly the Ohio Valley and the Plains.'
For those of you living in these areas threatened with severe thunderstorms, it's worth planning ahead and protecting your yards from a battering. Here are 5 essential yard jobs to complete before a thunderstorm.
The Farmers' Almanac predicts a 'flirt with early snow' around the Northeast and Great Lakes regions in October, especially within higher elevations. While it states the Southeast will enjoy a stretch of pleasant weather, 'perfect for fall festivals and Halloween preparations.'
So, if you live in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, it's advisable to protect your plants from frost before the temperature drops. You can use a number of household items to protect your plants from frost, including bubble wrap, newspaper, and fleece blankets. Straw and mulch are other materials that will offer protection.
While it isn't practical to cover a lawn, a light covering of snow will actually protect it. Gene Caballero, co-founder at GreenPal, says, 'Snow itself doesn't usually harm a lawn, but instead actually insulates the grass from harsh winter temperatures.'
However, heavy snowfall is more of a problem as it can lead to snow mold, and your lawn may well need some extra care and attention after the event.
This thick 45gsm fleece tunnel creates and retains warmth, protecting your plants from frost and insulating them from the cold. It allows air, moisture and sunlight to filter through, while providing pest protection from birds, animals and insects. The fleece tunnel measures 11.8 (L) x 18 (W) x 12 (H) inches.
'November brings the first real taste of winter for many', states the Farmers' Almanac. 'Snow becomes more frequent in the Rockies, Plains, and Great Lakes, with wet snow reaching parts of the Northeast.'
However, if you leave it too late to protect your plants before the snowfall, consider following some top tips to help them survive after it's snowed. These include knowing the best way to brush snow off your plants, how to care for your lawn, and what to prune.