Author: Annie Klodd, Extension Educator - Fruit and Vegetable Production Several areas of Minnesota, including areas around Alexandria, Brainerd, and Grand Rapids may experience below-freezing temperatures tonight and potentially tomorrow night. The temperatures in the weather forecast will not necessarily reflect the temperatures in a berry field, as temperatures can be lower at ground level. Therefore, having a weather station or basic thermometers out in the field will help accurately monitor temperatures and determine the need to implement freeze protection measures. Critical freeze temperatures: Blueberries at full bloom: 28 degrees F Blueberries at petal fall: 30 degrees F Strawberries at full bloom: 30 degrees F Strawberries at "popcorn" stage (not fully opened, but petals visible): 26 degrees F Options: The two options for freeze protection for berry crops are overhead irrigation and row covers. Running drip irrigation overnight will not protect berries. If us...
