Identification

• Radiation frost happens when cold, dry air enters into the lower atmosphere and causes a loss of heat. Advective frost occurs when a cold mass of air pushes warm air away, at ground level.
  
  

Considerations

• The process which produces frost damage by temperatures above freezing is called "low-temperature" or "chilling" injury. Leaves turn black or brown and the tree appears water-logged.
  
  

Effects

• Ice crystals form in plant cells. Then, blocked tissues restrict water movement. The tree doesn't receive enough moisture; therefore, it dries out.
  
  

Significance

• Frost damaged fruit is alright to eat after injury has occurred, according to the University of California. Generally, it must be eaten within a 2-day to 2-week time period, depending on environmental factors, storage and temperatures. If the fruit isn't used, bacteria and fungus problems tend to occur.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Prevent frost damage in spring, by wrapping the trunks of your young fruit trees when a cold snap is predicted. Trees are the most vulnerable when frost is predicted for your area after a series of hot days. Water plants in the morning to reduce moisture loss when temperatures fall.