AUGUSTA — Late spring frost has damaged a diverse range of plant species, including apple and other fruit trees, according to the Maine Forest Service.
The frost is not expected to cause long-term consequences to forest trees, but may cause a serious reduction in the production of apples and some other fruit trees, according to William Ostrofsy, a forest service pathologist. The long period of warm spring weather likely contributed to the damage by allowing tender young growth to be exposed earlier than usual, Ostrofsy said in a statement.
The forest service has received reports of damage to species including apples; Andromeda, an evergreen shrub; bamboo; American beech: ashes; oaks and maples in locations around the state.
The forest service will issue a full condition report on Maine trees next week.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
