Page 11 2025 Logan County Spring Outlook LINCOLN DAILY NEWS March 2025 severe cold may experience higher mortality rates during harsh winters. Conversely, native pests that have evolved in colder climates may possess mechanisms to withstand low temperatures, resulting in minimal impact on their populations. It's important to note that while extreme cold can reduce the numbers of certain pests, it may not eliminate them entirely. Additionally, some pests may have life stages that are less susceptible to cold temperatures, allowing them to survive and reproduce once favorable conditions return. Impact on Plant Pathogens Nathan Kleczewski, Research Assistant Professor at the Department of Crop Services, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign states that plant pathogens, including fungi and bacteria, can also be influenced by winter temperatures. Some pathogens may not overwinter as effectively during extreme cold periods, potentially reducing their prevalence in the following growing season. For example, certain fungal pathogens that cause diseases like powdery mildew may have reduced survival rates after harsh winters. However, Nathan indicates that the relationship between winter temperatures and pathogen survival is complex. Some pathogens produce resilient spores or structures that can withstand cold conditions, allowing them to persist despite severe weather. Moreover, fluctuations in temperature, rather than sustained cold, can sometimes be more detrimental to pathogens, as freeze-thaw cycles can disrupt their life cycles. Continued --
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