Protecting citrus crops from cold

CLERMONT, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - With freezing temperatures slamming Florida, some citrus growers are on edge.  If it hits 29 degrees, it could be devastating for citrus crops.

Showcase of Citrus owner John Arnold says he owns 1,000 acres of citrus in four different counties.  He says 30 to 40 percent of his crop was destroyed during Hurricane Irma, that’s why this one is so important.  He plans to irrigate his crops tonight, to help keep the temperatures warmer, but he’s worried it may not be enough.

“The remainder of the crop is the most valuable citrus crop state wide that we’ve every had and if we see that it’s been compromised after the freeze it’s gonna be a game changer. Anything below 29 degrees for 3 to 4 hours you can start getting ice and that can make the fruit fall.”

John says he also concerned about damage to trees and his future crops. He plans to keep a close eye on his sprinkler system.