Watermelon plants are in the ground in North Florida. Producers must now guard against potential sub-freezing temperatures that are in the forecast for the upcoming weekend.
Bob Hochmuth, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Regional Specialized Extension agent in Live Oak, Florida, said forecasts are predicting temperatures in the low-to-mid 30s Fahrenheit.
“Rain ahead of the cold temperatures will actually be helpful to add water to the row middle soil so heat can build up in that moist soil ahead of the cold. A moist soil takes longer to cool than a dry soil. Some rainfall (through) Saturday will be helpful,” Hochmuth said.
He advises growers to make sure they maintain adequate moisture in the beds ahead of the cold nights. This will allow the moist soil to stay warm during the sunny days under the black plastic. A moist bed will stay warmer longer.
Hochmuth also cautions growers against long overnight drip irrigation events. They are not of any benefit to temperatures but have a major negative impact by leaching fertilizer. If there is a high likelihood of freeze damage, growers should cover plants with row covers, styrofoam cups, paper plates or bowls.
“All are labor intensive, yet proven measures that protect plants,” Hochmuth added.
