But lists of averages can t account for one fact. The weather leading into a cold snap can have just as big an impact as how low the freezing temperatures go. Past weather can affect a cold snap s damage levels in two ways, Upham explained.
Warm spells can cause plants to lose some of their winter hardiness.
Plus, extended warm weather can activate trees fruit production process. In some stages, just 3 degrees F can make the difference between a 10 and 90 percent crop loss, Upham added. It s not unusual to see that much temperature variation from one side of town to the other. As a result, the following research-based tables are useful, but mostly to individual Kansans who monitor temperatures, as well as the fruit development on their own property. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and research centers statewide.