Apple trees are susceptible to below-freezing temperatures in the spring, depending on the variety and phenological stage. The chart below provides an example of the variation in temperature ranges that cause mortality during different stages of development, using the apple variety 'Red Delicious' as an example.
10% kill | 90% kill | |||
Pink to bloom | 28°F | -2°C | 25°F | -4°C |
Tight cluster | 27°F | -3°C | 21°F | -6°C |
½ inch green | 23°F | -5°C | 15°F | -9°C |
Updated 8 May 2024 DLO