We are expecting the first killing freeze of the season this week. Not really looking forward to it but it’s that time of the year in southeastern Indiana. We just need to get used to the idea of colder temperatures. With a very lean harvest this season, there is not as much anxiety or stress about these freezing temperatures as in past years when we had apples on the trees that still needed to be picked. The fruit itself doesn’t freeze with a dip in temperatures but the stems freeze. The weight of the apple then causes the stem to let loose and the apple drops to the ground. Usually after a hard freeze (25 degrees to 28 degrees) we have about three days to pick fruit before it drops.
Overnight freezing temperatures for several successive nights puts the trees into a dormant state. Fruit trees need to be dormant before annual pruning can begin. So next up on the orchard “to-do” list will be waiting for dormancy and then pulling the pruning equipment into the orchard and getting started. Most years we are not really anxious to get started. This year, however, it will be a bigger challenge and we will need to go after it as soon as it’s feasible. With no fruit production this season, many of the trees added too much new foliar growth and that will need to be removed by pruning.
The area Farmers’ Markets have closed for the season and buying fresh fruits and vegetables from local growers will be put on hold until next Spring. All the vendors who set up at the markets certainly appreciate the support of the local consumers. It’s a “win-win” for both. Remember, “we are all in this together.”