Frosty chill poses a risk to growers

THE frost is still to loosen its grip on this corner of the Dordogne, as Loubejac woke up after a chilly night.

The fields and low bushes were covered in a coat of frost this morning and in the woods the drip, drip, drip of the ice melting off the leaves could be heard as the sun slowly warmed the air.

For me it is a interesting sight, but for others dependent upon fruit and vegetable production steps have to be taken to protect valuable crops.

France Bleu Périgord reports on how tomato growers have closed up their tunnels in late afternoon to cocoon away their plants, while kiwi growers are ready to spray a fine mist over their fruits to create a coat of ice for protection.

And growers are sure to remain vigilant as we are still a couple of weeks away from the saints de glace, which this year is the 11, 12 and 13 May, that signify the last chance of icy temperatures and after which many will start planting softer fruits and vegetables.

Update: Fortes gelées dans le vignoble bordelais, les vignerons inquiets

French winemakers deploy candles, heaters and helicopters to save vines from frost