What 80 degrees in February does to Georgia blueberries. Major fruit, crops at risk
Unseasonably warm temperatures in February, reaching 80°F, can have devastating effects on Georgia’s blueberry crops. This unexpected warmth disrupts the natural growing cycle, putting major fruit and crops at risk.
Blueberries require chill hours—a necessary period of cold weather to stay dormant.
Premature Bud Development
When temperatures rise too soon, buds develop early, making them highly vulnerable to late winter frosts. A sudden freeze can kill the buds, leading to reduced yields.
Premature Bud Development
Without enough chill hours, blueberries may not produce fruit properly. This impacts farmers who depend on a consistent harvest to supply markets nationwide.
Reduced Fruit Production
Georgia’s famous peach trees also suffer from these temperature swings. They need cold exposure to develop fruit, and early warmth followed by a cold snap can destroy blossoms, leading to severe shortages
Impact on Other Crops
Fluctuating temperatures threaten Georgia’s fruit industry, reducing yields and increasing financial risks for farmers.
With climate change causing more unpredictable weather, growers are searching for solutions to protect their crops.