Why do Wind Machines Operate in Autumn?

Well, first of all there was a limited number of frost machines active last night. not really too cold and I certainly saw no evidence of frost on the ground.

However, this leads to the question of why the frost fans will even start up in Autumn?

We know that Spring frosts will damage new growth and hinder development, but it's a different reason to beat the frost in the Autumn.

The grapes are on the vine and are still developing. As such the plant is continuing to provide nutrients and energy to the fruit via the chemical processes associated with photosynthesis (photosynthate). If the leave are damaged by frost they no longer provide nutrients to the grapes and the reverse can occur where the plant can try to draw goodness back from the grapes. This is undesirable and typically it is prudent to pick grapes as soon as practical from a vineyard that has suffered frost damage in the Autumn.

Additionally, there is a risk of the wood of the vine not becoming fully mature before a frost and the resultant injury causing an increased susceptibility to disease.

Just when you thought it couldn't get worse. If frost damages the leaves and they die and this is followed by rain, the machine harvesting of the grapes can be difficult because of the dead leaves clogging the harvesters.

So there you go. Frost protection is useful. Frost protection is good. Just pick the right type and keep the frost fans away from your neighbours!