Fruit tree cultivation in China is predominantly carried out in open fields, making it highly vulnerable to natural environmental conditions. Winter weather can be particularly challenging, as prolonged periods of low temperatures or sudden temperature fluctuations often lead to frost damage. This kind of damage negatively impacts the yield and stability of fruit trees. Therefore, it is essential to implement effective measures to protect fruit trees during the winter season.
Frost damage in fruit trees can occur in several forms. First, tender twigs are susceptible to freezing. These young, immature shoots lack well-developed protective tissues, making them prone to cold injury. Second, branches may also suffer from freezing. Even though they are more resilient than twigs, extreme cold can still cause damage. Some branches might not show visible signs at first, but they may sprout late, produce thin or deformed leaves, or have a brown xylem with a black core, indicating freeze injury. Third, bark on branches can crack or peel due to freezing, leading to darkened, dead tissue and even the death of large branches in severe cases. Fourth, roots and trunks can be affected by root freezing. The underground roots are difficult to detect for damage, yet they significantly impact the growth of above-ground parts, causing delayed or irregular budding, leaf shrinkage, and dryness. Lastly, flower buds can be damaged when they break dormancy early in spring only to be hit by a late frost, which can result in reduced flowering, poor pollination, and lower yields.
To prevent frost damage, several measures can be taken. One approach is soil mounding around the base of the tree, creating a 20-25 cm layer of dry, fine soil to insulate the roots. However, care must be taken not to remove soil from the tree's root area, as this could expose the roots to further damage. The soil should be removed gradually in early spring once the temperature rises above 10°C. Another method involves trunk protection, such as applying a white coating made of lime, water, sulfur, salt, and oil, or wrapping the trunk with straw. For young or weak trees, covering the canopy with straw or plastic can provide additional insulation. For trees like loquats, branches can be bundled and pressed to the ground, then covered with soil. Pruning weak, dead, or late-growing branches can also help improve the tree’s ability to withstand cold. During snowfall, it's important to remove snow from the tree promptly without using sticks that might damage branches. Snow around the tree should be cleared to prevent ice buildup. In heavy snow conditions, burning smoke piles in orchards can create a protective layer against frost. Spraying plant growth regulators like 802 can enhance metabolism, promote rooting, and increase sugar content and color, thereby improving cold resistance. After a frost event, applying decomposed organic fertilizer in early spring and pruning dead parts can help trees recover quickly.
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