Covering up before a frost, freeze, or cold front, please note:
- Be aware that Radiation Frost occurs on a clear, calm night with little to no cloud cover. Some folks suggest a full moon increases frost risk, but the severity is actually driven by the absence of cloud cover, which allows surface heat to escape directly into space.
- Advective frost occurs when strong, cold air masses move into a region, replacing warmer air and bringing freezing temperatures, often accompanied by wind.
- Act immediately—improved weather forecasting gives at least 3 days’ warning before low temperatures hit.
- Prepare Covertan at least 2 days early to build ground heat for cold protection. Do not wait until the last minute—covering right before sunset is rarely effective.
- Choose thicker Covertan, like CP 30 or 40 gsm (.9 oz. or 1.2 oz), for the best cold protection—especially in advective cold air events. Leave it on during the day, or for weeks for continued protection; do not delay. This is a primary function for Growers using Covertan.
- Keep in mind: support hoops or suspended ropes that keep the Covertan off the plants help provide cold protection. Local county ordinances may restrict growers from using water sprinklers for cold/frost/freeze protection, especially for Strawberry growers, i.e., Plant City, N CA.
- To ensure you have adequate cold protection, please stock up on Covertan Crop Covers well before any expected cold fronts or frosts. Acting early is the best way to protect your crops.
An important note about Covertan Crop Covers for Frost/Cold Protection: