The southern United States, encompassing regions like Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, and Mississippi, is currently experiencing a severe winter storm characterized by unexpected snow and sleet. This weather event, propelled by arctic air, is expected to persist until the weekend. While certain fruit crops such as peaches may benefit from the cold weather, providing them with the necessary dormancy periods for growth, others like citrus are facing potential threats to their production.
For fruit growers, this cold spell presents a mixed bag. On one hand, fruit trees that require chilling periods, including peaches, apples, and blueberries, are receiving a much-needed cold boost after a particularly warm year, as noted by Colby Jones of Durbin Farms Market in Alabama. On the other hand, citrus fruits, particularly oranges, are at risk due to prolonged cold exposure, which could lead to significant production losses. Mary Sutton, a University of Georgia Agriculture assistant professor and citrus extension specialist, has underscored the necessity for growers to take pre-emptive measures such as irrigation and trunk covers to safeguard against freeze damage.
The USDA, with Brad Rippey, a meteorologist, at the forefront, is keeping a vigilant eye on the situation. There is a growing concern for citrus crops in South Texas and sugarcane in Louisiana, highlighting the vulnerability of these crops to the current cold weather conditions. The agricultural sector is on alert as it navigates through the challenges presented by this unexpected winter storm.
Source: AgricultureDive