How to protect potato crop from frost?

Frost poses a significant threat to potato crops, causing water within and around plant cells to freeze and rupture, leading to wilting and blackening of foliage. The freezing process can damage tubers, resulting in browning or blackening, ultimately impacting the quality and yield of the harvest.

What is Frost?

Frost is a thin layer of ice crystals that forms on a solid surface when air temperature drops below the freezing point (0°C or 32°F). 

How frosts affect potato plant?

Frost leads to the contraction and freezing of water within and around plant cells, resulting in cell rupture. The phospholipids within cell membranes solidify, impeding membrane permeability. The demise of cells heightens susceptibility to pathogenic attacks. Frost particularly devastates delicate shoots, primarily impacting leaves and tubers. Underdeveloped tubers undergo desiccation, impeding poor yield, ultimately diminishing their overall weight and size. 

How to identify frost attack?

1. Blackened and Wilting Foliage: Frost-damaged potato plants often exhibit blackened or wilted leaves. The cold temperatures can cause the plant cells to rupture, leading to a collapse of the affected foliage.
2. Soft and Water-Soaked Tissues: Frost-damaged tissues become soft and water-soaked due to the freezing and subsequent thawing process. This can result in a mushy texture in the affected parts of the plant.
3. Darkened Stems and Shoots: Stems and shoots may darken or turn black as a result of frost damage. This discoloration is indicative of the impact on the vascular tissues of the plant.
4. Stunted Growth: Frost can stunt the growth of potato plants, particularly if the growing tips and meristematic tissues are affected. This can result in a reduction in plant height and overall size.
5. Browning or Blackening of Tubers: If the frost occurs during the tuberization phase, it can lead to browning or blackening of the developing potatoes. This damage can affect the quality and market value of the harvested crop.

How to escape potato plant from frost?

Monitor Weather Conditions: Stay informed about weather forecasts in your area. If a frost is predicted, take preemptive measures to protect your potato crop-

1. Hilling: Hilling involves mounding soil around the base of the potato plants to create a protective barrier. This helps to insulate the plants and tubers from frost. Hilling also promotes root development and prevents exposure of tubers to sunlight, which can cause them to turn green.
2. Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or hay, around the potato plants. Mulch helps to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and provide insulation against frost. Make sure to apply the mulch after the soil has cooled in the fall.
3. Row Covers: Use row covers or frost blankets to create a physical barrier between the potato plants and the frost. These covers can be placed over the plants during the evening and removed during the day to allow sunlight and air circulation. Row covers trap heat and protect plants from frost.
4. Watering: Wet soil retains heat better than dry soil. Water the potato plants thoroughly before a predicted frost to increase the soil's heat-retaining capacity. However, be cautious not to overwater, as excessively wet soil can lead to other issues such as diseases.
5. Cold Frames or Tunnels: Constructing cold frames or low tunnels can provide additional protection from frost. These structures trap heat during the day and release it at night, creating a more stable microclimate for the potato plants.
6. Use Frost-Resistant Varieties: Choose potato varieties that are more resistant to frost. Some varieties have better cold tolerance and are more suitable for planting in areas prone to late spring or early fall frosts.
7. Plant Timing: Planting potatoes at the right time can help avoid late spring frosts. Consider local climate patterns and historical frost dates when planning your planting schedule.