N.C. State Extension cautions strawberry producers to apply row covers to their plants in anticipation of freezing temperatures that will linger into the weekend.
A freeze warning started Thursday night and will continue Friday night. But conditions will improve on Saturday, though there still is a chance for a frost from Saturday night to Sunday.
According to N.C. State Extension, the morning of highest concern is Saturday morning. A high pressure system will allow winds to decrease and ground temperatures to cool. It is likely to be several degrees below freezing in many areas. This frost and ground freeze will extend into Georgia as well.
Farmers are encouraged to apply double covers in areas where temperatures are forecast to be below 20 degrees. It’s also important to have sprinklers set up and in place in case they’re needed.