BEDFORD — Winter’s lease is officially up this week as Southern Indiana prepares to welcome the astronomical start of spring. The vernal equinox is set to occur on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 10:46 a.m. EDT, marking the precise moment the sun crosses the celestial equator.
For Lawrence County residents, the timing couldn’t be better. After a final brush with winter-like chill earlier in the week, a significant warming trend is moving into the region, promising a weekend that looks and feels like the new season.
According to local meteorologists, Friday will see temperatures begin their climb with highs reaching the upper 60s under cloudy skies. However, the real treat arrives on Saturday.
- Friday (Spring Equinox): Highs near 72°F. Cloudy with a slight 10% chance of a stray shower.
- Saturday: The standout day of the week. Highs will soar to 78°F with plenty of sunshine and light southwest winds—perfect for yard work or a visit to a local park.
- Sunday: Temperatures will actually peak in the low 80s, but the warmth comes with a trade-off. Rain chances increase late in the day (25% by nightfall) as a cold front approaches.
The spring-like surge will be brief, as a dip in temperatures is expected by Monday, bringing the region back toward seasonal averages.
Spring Gardening: What to Plant Now
With the ground finally thawing and daytime temperatures hitting the 60s and 70s, it is a prime time for Southern Indiana gardeners to get their hands dirty.
According to the Purdue Extension Service, now is the ideal window for “cool-season” crops:
- Direct Sowing: If the soil is dry enough to crumble (rather than form a ball), you can plant peas, lettuce, spinach, carrots, and radishes.
- Transplants: Hardier vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and onions can be moved to the garden now.
- Lawn Care: While it’s tempting to start mowing, experts suggest waiting until the grass is consistently growing. Now is the time to sharpen blades and remove any lingering winter debris or heavy mulch from flower beds to let the soil breathe.
