Fogging is cost efficient way to protect Florida foliage from cold

A 3-year study by Univ. of Fla. researchers suggests that it would be more cost effective for the state’s foliage growers to heat shade houses with water, using foggers and misters. Environmental horticulture professor Bob Stamps said the fog and missing systems are less expensive than heaters and help to reduce fuel consumption. Results of the study are published in Hort Science.
Depending on the season, well water distributed through the foggers and misters can be used for heating or cooling because the water has a constant temperature (70°F-80°F) year-round. The study looked at two types of misters and two foggers in commercial nurseries during 3 winters. The devices kept shade houses warm enough to protect all but one plant genus (Carludovica sp., jungle drum palm) of the nine tested. On equipment issue that can impact the devices effectiveness is clogging resulting in reduced water flow.
Stamps said both the foggers and misters could also have application to food and cut foliage crops. This winter university researchers will test the foggers and misters on tomatoes and fresh cut leatherleaf fern.

Pictured: Univ. of Fla. researchers are studying the feasibility of using foggers and misters on foliage plants to warm shade houses to prevent chilling injury.