How Late Frost & a Cold Spring Affects Fruit Trees
Channel: Ross Raddi
Date: 2024-03-19

In this video, Ross discusses the vulnerability of early-blooming fruit trees to late frost, particularly focusing on apricots, plums, and pluots. He advises viewers to mitigate risk by selecting late-blooming varieties and employing protection methods such as planting in sheltered areas and using techniques like thermodynamic heating or sprinkler systems. Ross underscores the uncertainty of fruit production due to potential frost damage at different stages of growth, emphasizing the importance of understanding temperature thresholds for bloom stages.

Michigan State University's damage threshold chart: https://www.canr.msu.edu/fruit/uploads/files/PictureTableofFruitFreezeDamageThresholds.pdf

Introduction to Frost Concerns (0:00): Ross discusses the impact of late frost on fruit trees, particularly those with early blooms like apricots, plums, and pluots, highlighting the susceptibility of these trees to damage.

Selecting Late-blooming Varieties (2:14): Ross advises viewers to choose varieties that bloom later to mitigate the risk of frost damage, showcasing a Green Gauge Plum as an example of a late-blooming option.

Protection Methods (3:25): Ross suggests planting trees in sheltered areas, utilizing microclimates, thermodynamic heating, and even employing techniques like sprinkler systems or Christmas lights to protect trees from freezing temperatures.

Understanding Temperature Effects (4:28): Ross references a study by Michigan State University regarding temperature thresholds for different bloom stages, emphasizing the importance of temperature over frost in determining potential damage to flowers and fruits.

Uncertainty of Fruit Production (5:07): Ross explains the risks associated with fruit production despite trees being in their fifth season, highlighting the unpredictable nature of fruit set due to potential frost damage at various stages of growth.

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