These temperatures, however, were low enough to kill peach buds in some areas. It is too early to be sure if there will be a peach crop, however, and growers should keep a good watch as buds begin to swell over the next few weeks. If recent warm spells continue, growers could see early budbreak and increased risk of frost injury. Apples, pears, and blueberries appear to be in good condition. Tender varieties of grapes were injured in some areas, but more hardy types made it through the winter in good shape.
Raspberries appear to have suffered winter injury in many areas.
The warm January thaws are likely to blame, as raspberries have low chilling requirements and respond quickly to warming temperatures, losing cold hardiness and begining growth. Fruit crops such as apples, pears, and blueberries should have the potential for a good crop this year where a small crop occurred during 1996. If there is a '96 in the corner we have no record of your payment for 1997, and you will not receive another issue of the newsletter. Dr. Peter Hirst joined the Department of Horticulture as an Assistant Professor of Pomology Extension and Research January 1, 1997. Peter brings over 10 years of experience in Pomology to our program, with emphasis on apple production.