Late spring frosts pose a significant risk to apple orchards, causing flower drop and reduced fruit set. Betaine, a natural anti-stress compound, helps apple trees tolerate low temperatures and minimize frost damage.

How Betaine Protects Apple Trees from Frost

Enhances Cell Membrane Stability: Betaine prevents ice crystal formation, reducing cell rupture.

Boosts Antioxidant Activity: It reduces oxidative damage caused by cold stress.

Supports Water Retention: Betaine helps maintain hydration in plant tissues, preventing dehydration due to frost.

Promotes Flower and Fruit Retention: Trees treated with betaine show higher fruit set rates after frost events.

Application Strategies

Pre-frost foliar spray: Apply a 0.5% betaine solution 24–48 hours before an expected frost.

Soil drenching: Using betaine-enriched irrigation enhances root cold tolerance.

By using betaine as a frost-protection agent, apple growers can reduce cold damage, improve flower retention, and achieve higher fruit yields in unpredictable climates.