In this type of situation, growers must respond quickly to prevent substantial damage to orchard and vine crops. Crews are often needed for more than one hour to complete the frost-prevention tasks. Entering these fields is necessary to check equipment and make sure it is operating on a continuous basis during the critical period when crops are subject to severe damage. Contact with treated plants and surfaces is for very short and intermittent periods. The agricultural-growing areas of the state includes mountains, valleys, deserts, and coastal areas within the boundaries of California.
Soil types span from sandy loam to clay.
A significant portion of the agricultural production is grown in areas that receive less than 25 inches of rainfall per year. The variety of climates found in the state include those of the central and southern counties that have a marine influence and moderate conditions. The early warm winter conditions of the southern part of the state, and the moderate spring and fall conditions of the central valley provide for a range of microclimates and crop production. Because of the climactic diversity, California is able to supply a year-round supply of fruits and vegetables. Natural precipitation occurs during a narrow time frame, usually between December and February, and seldom during the peak production season.