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Grape growing is a combination of both art and science. There are a myriad of factors that influence yield and quality – from insect and mold damage to rainfall to sunshine. One of the most critical factors is temperature.
In the springtime, as buds on the grapevine become active, swell, open, and begin growth, they become more susceptible to frost injury. The table and photos below indicate the extent to which frost can damage buds at each stage of their development. "T 10" temperatures are likely to kill 10% of primary buds; "T90" temperatures are estimated to kill 90% of the primaries. The values shown
in the table below were determined in the laboratory and have not been
checked extensively against field injury. Further, the test procedures
were modified in 1977 and therefore the data represent only one season's
experience. In spite of these limitations, these values are distributed
as a guide of what might be expected on cold nights. These estimates
also provide a basis, to which growers can relate their experiences
of field injury.
E. L. Proebsting,
V. P. Brummund and W. J. Clore. Horticulturist, Research Aid, and former
Research Horticulturist, Washington State University Irrigated Agricultural
Research and Extension Center, Prosser. |
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