Contrary to frost damages in 2011, this year's frost did not only affect various regions, but the whole country suffered damage. A total of around 6,000 hectares of orchard in Baden-Württemberg was damaged. Even anti-freeze protection, which can only been applied to some of the surface as well as other frost protection measures did not lead to the desired success. Frost damage comparable to this occurred in 1981 and also in part in 1991.
Stone fruits almost completely wiped out
Stone fruits, including cherries, plums, apricots and peaches were almost completely destroyed, with a few regional exceptions. In pome fruit production, including pears and apples, the data differs from region to region with damages lying between 80 and 90 percent.
Stone fruits, including cherries, plums, apricots and peaches were almost completely destroyed, with a few regional exceptions. In pome fruit production, including pears and apples, the data differs from region to region with damages lying between 80 and 90 percent.
Frost damaged cherries - Photo: Jörg Jenrich/LTZ
Plant protection should not be neglected
In spite of the expected extreme harvest losses in most fruit crops, the health of the plants is not to be neglected. This is particularly true of fungal diseases and weed control. The rods and tendrils of raspberries and blackberries and strawberries can be kept healthy by carrying out appropriate fungicide measures.
Shoot and leaf damage, as well as disease carrying pests such as aphids, spider mites or psyllids must be combated accordingly with insecticide or acaricide.