It was 6F at night today while whole winter it didn’t go to single digits at all and most days average was close to 32 or above. Trees are sure ready for spring, but… So, here is my protection report:
What is protected: 7 years old apricot tree
Frame: permanent steel tubes with fixating steel corner fittings , 8X8X8
Cover: regular plastic tarp held by metal clumps.
Heater: oil radiator set to max(not sure what is wattage, most likely 1.5 kw)
Temperature outside: 6F
Temperature on the branch on the max distance from heater: 21F
Installed: day before temperature drop
Term: few days
Comments: this setup only works when it is dry outside, will collect water/snow. Will increase temperature inside when it is sunny, so you may need to turn off heater and open cover up a bit during sunny day and close by night.
What is protected: 3 years old persimmon tree
Frame: gazebo 5X7X8 with flat wooden roof to hold snow
Cover: double layer of reflective insulation.
**Heater:**200W heating lamp + fan
Temperature outside: 6F
Temperature on the branch on the max distance from heater: 26.6F(temp set on thermostat)
Installed: in fall
Term: whole winter
Comments: Somewhat increases temperature inside during the day without heater, last year tree woke up earlier then it could, but thermostat was set to 32. This year it is 26.
