CHAPTER XXXVI. 

 FROST PROTECTION. 



The question of frost protection is one which has been 

 forcibly brought to the attention of citrus growers, dur- 

 ing the last decade, in nearly all districts in the United 

 States in which oranges or other citrus fruits are grown. 

 The frequent occurrence of frost and an occasional freeze, 

 injurious to trees or fruit, or to both, has awakened great 

 interest in the methods of protecting citrus groves from 

 the effects of cold. As a result, many different plans have 

 been brought forward. Some of these have stood the test 

 of many trials, while others have been discarded in favor 

 of better or more economical methods. In no region has 

 the growing of citrus fruits been abandoned entirely be- 

 cause of the effects of cold, and a very considerable degree 

 of success has rewarded the efforts of many to maintain 

 their groves in exposed regions. No matter what means 

 of protection may be adopted, the principal factor in the 

 success of any one of them is the individual himself. Pro- 

 vision must be made beforehand, everything must be in 

 readiness. It will not do to leave the preparations for pro- 

 tection until the last moment and then expect to get good 

 results. 



One of the most necessary and essential things in 

 frost fighting is that the grower should have some means 

 of knowing when frosts are to be expected. If forewarned, 

 everything will be in readiness, and he will be on the alert. 

 In giving warning of the approach of cold waves, the 

 United States Weather Bureau has done excellent service. 

 People are usually warned through the newspapers, and by 



