Fruit Farmers Prepare for Change

By Scout Nelson

Fruit crops in Minnesota have entered their winter dormancy period, a natural process that helps plants survive the cold season. While orchards and fruit fields rest, fruit growers use this downtime to prepare for the year ahead. This planning period is especially important for organic fruit producers, who are already adapting to major climate trends affecting the region.

Warmer winters, wetter springs, and drier summers are becoming more common across Minnesota. These changes bring new challenges, including increased pest pressure, unpredictable frost events, and shifting moisture levels. To help growers respond to these conditions, the University of Minnesota Extension is launching the second year of its climate resilience program for fruit growers in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The program is organized by an extension educator who also serves as president of the Organic Fruit Growers Association. It aims to support fruit producers by giving them up-to-date climate information, tools to evaluate risks and strategies to strengthen long-term production.

Beginning Wednesday, the program will guide participants through discussions on how climate patterns affect fruit crops and what steps growers can take to protect their harvests. Topics may include choosing resilient varieties, improving soil health, adjusting irrigation systems, and preparing for extreme weather events. The program also highlights the important role fruit crops play in local and regional food systems, especially as communities rely more on locally grown produce.

One organizer explained the purpose of the program during an interview, noting that fruit growers need resources to understand how climate change affects their work and how they can stay successful in the long term. By learning during the winter months, growers can make thoughtful decisions before the growing season begins.

As climate patterns continue to shift, the program provides essential support for fruit growers navigating these challenges. The initiative strengthens community knowledge and helps producers plan for a future shaped by unpredictable weather.

Photo Credit: istock-elenathewise