Last weekend, between 7 and 9 February, temperatures dropped below -4 degrees Celsius in areas at high risk of frost, causing some damage to citrus and stonefruit.

But the situation is different for growers who have made use of methods such as the new patented Control de Heladas (Frost Control) system, which has allowed them to save their crops.

"In normal circumstances, we would have suffered complete losses, but surprisingly, the ice of the Frost Control system has protected even the flowers," says a Valencian grower.

Although it sounds paradoxical, this system prevents frost by creating a film of ice on plants and fruits, thus preventing temperatures below 0 degrees.

"The plant is protected by a layer of ice and kept moist. Each gram of frozen water releases 80 calories, and with this heat we prevent the temperature from dropping below 0 degrees Celsius," says Carlos Arenes, who developed the system.

The key is the quick and low water application microsprinklers, with up to 5 times lower water use than any other system on the market, which make it possible for water to arrive to every corner of the farm where the system is installed.

"The success of this system in Valencian plantations is resulting in an increase in the number of orders, not only in Valencia, but also many other important production areas," assures Carlos Arenes.

Source - http://www.freshplaza.com