April 16, 2026, 10:52 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The Ice Saints refer to five consecutive days in May. During these days, it can get quite cold again. This weather can be very harmful to our plants. For this reason, hobby gardeners should wait for these days to pass before really getting started in the garden.
There are many farmers’ sayings—some are accurate, while others are not. Some are marked in red on the calendars of hobby gardeners and farmers because they often prove true. This includes the Ice Saints, which occur every year in May. Each day has various farmers’ sayings that essentially convey the same message: There could be frost again. So, anyone who doesn’t want to cover all plants with frost protection in May should wait for major work until after the Ice Saints.
Overview
Why Is Late Frost So Dangerous?
In addition to late frost, spring frost is also mentioned, which can occur long after winter has ended. But what makes it dangerous? According to the German Weather Service (DWD), it is a frost that occurs after the start of the growing season. This poses a significant risk in the garden because plants are already sprouting, encouraged by the spring sun, and some are even blooming. Therefore, late frosts can cause damage, especially in fruit, vegetable, and wine cultivation, according to the DWD.
When Can Plants Be Taken Outside?
For hobby gardeners, this means frost-sensitive plants, especially many vegetable varieties, are best planted in the garden soil only after the potential late frost phase. Cold-sensitive potted plants that were stored indoors during winter should only be taken outside when it’s warm enough. Or at least brought back inside temporarily or wrapped warmly with fleece for the frosty night.
When Are the Ice Saints?
The end of the late frost danger in Germany is traditionally marked by the so-called Ice Saints. These are commemorative days honoring certain saints in May, after which, statistically speaking, sub-zero temperatures are unlikely. The Ice Saints occur on the same days each year. In northern Germany, Mamertus, Pancras, and Servatius (May 11 to 13) are considered Ice Saints. In the south and southeast of the country, in addition to Pancras and Servatius, Boniface (May 14) and “Cold Sophie” (May 15) are also included.
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What Farmers’ Sayings Exist About the Ice Saints?
Numerous farmers’ sayings have been passed down over time, capturing the garden rule:
- “If the Ice Saints pass without frost, farmers and winemakers shout hooray”
- “Never plant before Cold Sophie”
- “Pancras and Servatius are two evil brothers; what spring brought, they destroy again”
- “Before Boniface, no summer, after Sophie, no frost”
How Reliable Are the Ice Saints?
But it also shows repeatedly: The commemorative days are only a rough guide for late frost. Not every year brings late frosts until mid-May—in recent years, they have often been absent altogether. Additionally, there are now scientifically sophisticated weather forecasts that garden owners can rely on more confidently.
And after the Ice Saints? Then the real work can begin! Anyone who has been waiting for the frost danger to subside can then sow, plant, and carry the heavy potted plants from the house into the sun. The gardening season has officially started!