Friday, April 27, 2012

Frost Alert! April 27, 2012

Hello again!
 
 
FROST ALERT
 There is  potential for frost in Skillin's Country especially away from the coast and to the north of the Portland area for Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Any low lying areas could also see frost as temperatures in the valleys even along the coast can be many degrees colder than a ridge or higher spot just yards away.  

If temperatures drop lower than the "mid 30's" and we have clear overnight skies with little wind, then frost is very likely to occur. Windy conditions are being predicted for tonight which will help reduce chance for frost in some areas. Keep an eye on those night time temperatures!

Tender material planted in the ground (such as annual plantings) is really the plant material that is at risk. In most cases we do not consider pansies or most perennials at risk. Vegetables like lettuce, broccoli, swiss chard and cabbage will probably be fine UNLESS this is their first night or two out. Bulb plants like daffodils, tulips and hyacinth will be fine and are not at risk. Shrubs and trees will be fine.

If you suspect frost damage is likely to occur on a particular night, try to cover the "at risk" material with a frost blanket (we sell them here at Skillin's). Obviously any at risk material planted in a container can be brought in for the night. Also a bed sheet or light blanket will do the trick. Or give this material a shower of water at dusk and then if frost has occurred give the material another shower to melt off the burning frost just before sunrise occurs. The early morning sun can touch those frost particles and cause the particles to in essence "burn" the plant material.

Let us know if you have any questions about frost damage!
 
 
Our store locations and contact information are as follows:
 
 Skillin's Greenhouses, Brunswick, 422 Bath Road, Brunswick ME 04011 442-8111, 800-339-8111
 Skillin's Greenhouses, Cumberland, 201 Gray Road, Cumberland ME 04021 829-5619, 800-348-8498
 Skillin's Greenhouses, Falmouth, 89 Foreside Road, Falmouth ME 04105 781-3860, 800-244-3860
 
 
Mike Skillin
Skillin's Greenhouses
April 27, 2012
 

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