California Citrus Mutual (CCM) recently reported that the 2023 frost season is underway for the state’s San Joaquin Valley citrus growers. “That means growers will be closely monitoring weather forecasts to prepare for any cold spells that may sweep through the valley in the coming months,” the citrus growers’ trade association stated.
Although long periods of below-freezing temperatures are of concern to growers, CCM noted that cooler weather is also good for citrus. Cold temperatures benefit the crop by maintaining fruit quality, improving color and sending trees into dormancy.
“Cold temperatures aren’t a bad thing for citrus. In fact, they can have positive effects on the fruit and trees,” said California Citrus Mutual President/Chief Executive Officer Casey Creamer. “It’s when below-freezing temperatures last for long periods of time that we get concerned there could be damage to the crop.”
Below-freezing temperatures lasting more than a few hours have the ability to impact all citrus varieties. However, mandarins are often at the greatest risk due to their thin peel, CCM stated.
To combat below-freezing temperatures, citrus growers run wind machines and irrigation. These techniques help raise grove temperatures and alleviate any negative effects of long cold periods.
CCM aids growers during the frost season by running the California Citrus Weather Watch program. Through this program, CCM employs weather stations throughout the region and provides growers with daily citrus-specific forecasts. The program runs from Nov. 15 through March 15 each year.
The California Citrus Weather Watch program utilizes 25 weather stations located between Madera and Kern counties. CCM Chief Meteorologist Scott Borgioli provides growers with weather information in a forecast report. Growers can access these forecasts via the CCM website or audio recording, or opt-in to receive the forecasts directly through email or text.
Source: California Citrus Mutual
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