According to weather forecasts, from February 1st to 6th, Hubei Province will experience the most powerful cold wave of the winter, with low temperatures, rain, Snow, and ice. The average temperature across the province is expected to drop by 6°C to 10°C. This severe freezing weather will pose a significant threat to the normal growth of tea plants, particularly young ones. Precautionary measures should be taken to minimize the impact of extreme freezing conditions on tea fields and ensure the production of spring tea next year.
Influence of Low-Temperature Freezing Weather on Tea Production
Severe freezing weather poses a significant threat to the normal growth of tea plants, especially young ones, potentially leading to reduced yields, decreased quality, and even plant death.
Measures to Prevent Frost Damage in Tea Plants
1. Covering for Frost Protection
For mature tea plants in high-altitude areas, non-woven fabrics, ground films, or shade nets can be used to directly cover the Canopy, with better results achieved by erecting a shelter 10cm to 20cm above the canopy. Covering with rice straw or crop stalks provides even better protection against extreme cold. Covering materials should be removed when temperatures rise.
2. Spraying Anti-Freeze Agents
For mature tea plants in high-altitude areas, anti-freeze agents such as calcium ions, abscisic acid, proline, betaine, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and brassinolide can be sprayed on the canopy before the onset of extreme cold weather. These substances can enhance the plant's tolerance to extreme cold.
3. Setting up Barriers for Frost Protection
High-altitude tea fields should also guard against strong winds brought about by low temperatures. Windbreaks can be set up on the north and west sides of the field using rice straw curtains or plastic films.
4. Air Circulation to Prevent Frost
When temperatures drop to near frost levels, tea fields equipped with large frost fans can activate them to promote air circulation within the microclimate, controlling the temperature near the Tree canopy and reducing the risk of frost damage.
5. Mulching or Applying Base Fertilizer for Frost Protection
Young tea plants have weaker cold resistance, so soil should be mounded around their roots during cultivation to protect the root system. Before the onset of extreme cold, a heavy application of base fertilizer can also be applied. This not only helps retain heat but also benefits the growth of young tea plants.
6. Straw Mulching Between Rows for Frost Protection
Rice straw or plastic films can be used to mulch between rows of young tea plants, mitigating the effects of extreme cold. Suitable materials for mulching include rice straw, wheat stalks, corn stalks, green manure stalks, and tea branches.
7. Sheltered Cultivation for Frost Protection
In concentrated areas of young tea plants, various types of plastic-covered structures can be used to protect against frost before temperature drops. For tea fields already equipped with plastic shelters, if temperatures inside are still too low, heaters can be used to warm the interior. Ensure that snow is promptly removed from the exterior of these structures to prevent collapse.
Post-Freeze Rescue Measures for Tea Plants
1. Soil Nutrient Management
For tea plants affected by extreme cold, spring fertilization should be applied early and frequently, primarily using nitrogen-based fertilizers, supplemented with foliar fertilizers. This can help strengthen the plant. For severely damaged tea plants, adjustments to fertilization measures should be made based on the condition of the plant after new shoots emerge. For plants with frozen roots, foliar fertilization can be applied once new leaves have matured. After temperatures rise, timely hoeing and weeding should be conducted to improve soil aeration and enhance root absorption capacity. For tea fields suffering from extreme cold, especially young plants, it is necessary to replenish fast-acting nitrogen fertilizers to recover lost nutrients and maintain canopy function.
2. Pruning and Replanting After Spring Warming
After tea plants are subjected to extreme cold, parts of the canopy may lose their photosynthetic ability. When temperatures warm up, a thorough inspection of the affected fields should be conducted. If branches are found to be damaged, they should be pruned lightly. For lightly damaged plants, light pruning can be performed to remove dead branches and leaves. For severely damaged fields, dead branches should be removed. For 1- to 2-year-old tea plants, shaping pruning can be performed, removing some dead branches and replanting healthy seedlings as needed.
National Tea Industry Technology System (Hubei “Two Hills and Three Stations”)
Hubei Science and Technology Service Tea Industry Chain “515” Action (Collaborative Promotion) Team
Hubei Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Center Tea Innovation Team
Joint Release