Discover How Cherry Trees Survive Extreme Cold with Supercooling

Cherry Trees in Winter

In the chilly winters of British Columbia, sweet cherry trees showcase a remarkable survival strategy known as supercooling. This incredible process allows their flower buds to remain unfrozen even when temperatures plunge below zero. These trees adapt to the freezing conditions around them, demonstrating an extraordinary resilience.

Winter Orchard with Cherry Trees

However, this delicate balance can easily be disrupted. A sudden cold snap, like the one experienced in January 2024, can threaten their survival. Such extreme weather events pose significant risks to these trees, putting their budding flowers in jeopardy. Understanding the mechanisms behind supercooling can help us appreciate the delicate dance of nature and the challenges these trees face.