The south of the United States, encompassing regions including Texas, Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi and Mississippi, is experiencing the ravages of winter, which is that is characterized by sudden snowfall and snow. The weather phenomenon, fueled by arctic winds and expected to last through the weekend. Certain fruit crops like peaches could profit from this cold conditions, giving them the required periods of dormancy to allow to grow, other crops like citrus could be at risk for their harvest.

For those who grow fruit, this winter storm is an array of. One side is that fruit trees that need chilling such as apples, peaches and blueberries, receive a needed cooling boost following a hot year as reported by Colby Jones of Durbin Farms Market in Alabama. However citrus fruits, specifically oranges, can be vulnerable from prolonged cold exposure and could cause substantial losses in production. Mary Sutton, a University of Georgia Agriculture Assistant Professor and a specialist in extension for citrus she has stressed the need that growers take preventive steps like irrigation or trunk covers in order to protect themselves from the effects of freezing.

The USDA The USDA, and with Brad Rippey, a meteorologist in charge and keeping an watch on the current situation. The situation is becoming increasingly alarming about the citrus plants within South Texas and sugarcane in Louisiana and Louisiana, which underscores the dangers of these crops the cold and harsh weather conditions. The agriculture sector is alert in the face of the challenges posed by the unexpected winter storm.

Information Source: AgricultureDive