This update summarizes current weather conditions and fruit crop development in southwest Michigan as of late March 2025. The information is based on data and observations from Michigan State University Extension and MSU Enviroweather.
The winter of 2024–2025 was relatively typical for the region. Temperatures stayed close to long-term averages, rarely deviating more than 10 degrees. The coldest period occurred on January 21–22, when lows dropped to around -6°F. According to MSU, this cold snap is not expected to cause significant bud damage. Winter precipitation was also near average, with December bringing above-average rain and snow, while the rest of the season saw near or below normal levels. Much of Michigan's Lower Peninsula entered winter in drought, and those conditions remain largely unchanged as of March 27.
© MSU - Cheyenne Sloan
In contrast to the stable winter, March has been marked by fluctuating temperatures. Notable warm spells occurred on March 14 and again over the past weekend, with widespread highs in the mid-70s. Precipitation has been near normal throughout the month. A significant storm system passed through on March 30, delivering heavy rain, strong winds, and reports of tornadoes. The following Monday and Tuesday brought temperatures in the low to mid-20s in some areas. While most tree fruit is still in early development, some advanced varieties may have sustained minor damage, with losses estimated at 10–20%. The outlook for the coming week includes lows in the upper 30s and highs in the 50s, with another strong storm predicted midweek and additional rain expected over the weekend. The medium-range forecast for April suggests cooler and drier than average conditions.
Tree fruit development is progressing steadily. In central Berrien County, apricots have reached the first white stage. Peach and nectarine buds are swollen, and the recent mild weather has increased the risk of peach leaf curl, a disease that thrives under wet conditions and temperatures between 46 and 55°F. Treatments at this stage can help prevent additional infections, and low copper applications may also assist in managing bacterial spot populations. Tart cherries are at the side green to early green tip stage in central Berrien County. Copper sprays can still be applied safely to help reduce bacterial canker in cherries.
Apples are moving forward as well. In early varieties like Zestar, trees are at the half-inch green to tight cluster stage in Berrien County. As green tissue continues to emerge, scab sprays will be necessary to prevent infection during upcoming rain events. At this stage, protectant fungicides are generally preferred over systemic options. Pears have reached a point where blossom buds are exposed, and pear psylla adults are already active. As with apples, scab sprays should be applied to protect the emerging green tissue.
Among small fruits, grapes are showing limited movement, but bud swell has begun in Concord, Niagara, and early wine varieties such as Briana and Marquette. Blueberries are at bud swell throughout southern Allegan County, with Berrien County slightly ahead. Growers still have time to apply copper, Sulforix, or lime sulfur products to manage early season disease pressure.
© MSU - Cheyenne Sloan
Strawberry growers should be removing overwintering mulch and raking it between rows. Some are also beginning to lay out floating row covers. Early season herbicide applications are underway to manage overwintering weeds, though growers should take care to check pre-harvest intervals (PHIs) when selecting products.
In brambles, many growers are pruning. For summer-bearing raspberries, last year's primocanes are being headed to the desired height, and remaining floricanes are removed. Fall-bearing raspberries should be cut or mowed to the ground. Lime sulfur treatments for anthracnose can still be applied at this time.
Photo Credit: Cheyenne Sloan
Source: MSU
For more information:
Kelly Kussmaul
Michigan State University
Tel: +1 517 355 1855
Email: kussmau3@msu.edu
www.canr.msu.edu