Freeze Information

For anyone involved in growing plams and cycads in the greater Central Florida area, freezing weather during the winter is always a concern. Although the area enjoys very mild weather, occasional drops in temperature below the freezing mark and less common but more damaging hard freezes can wreak havoc on most palms and many cycads.

The duration and lowest temperature of the freeze are the main determinants of the the amount of damage the event inflicts on the plants. But the damage seems to also be dependent on many other factors such wind, humidity, location, species (and variety!) and age of the specimen. The amount of damage can range from slightly burnt leaves to outright killing of the plant.

The links below offer more information on this topic. The CFPACS discussion forums also contain a "freeze discussion" area that is very active during the winter months!

• A History of Freeze Results in Central Florida

  by Dave Witt. Contains a list of palms grown in Central Florida and their observed hardiness in relation to cold. Reprinted from The Palmateer, Vol.IV, 1999.

• Dave Witt's website

  Dave offers his observations on freeze damage during the 2000-2001 winter and photos of freeze damage to palms.

• Joseph Ayo's Winter 2000-2001 Freeze Report

  A discussion of ways to minimize the damage of freezing weather to palms and cycads. Discusses the use of irrigation, planting under shade and different methods of covering the plant. Illustrated with photos.

• A Brief Synopsis of Readily Available Palms not Necessarily Recommended for Central Florida

  by Ray Hernandez. A discussion of freeze temperatures in Florida and why you shouldn't grow some commonly available palms in the area! Reprinted from The Palmateer Vol. III, 2000
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  The Cold Rating Database (CRDB)

  A database of palm (and other plants) cold hardiness information contributed by many growers. Contains plant damage summary, minimum temperatures, dates and location of observaton.