Methods for Measuring Frost Tolerance of Conifers: A Systematic Map

Frost tolerance is the ability of plants to withstand freezing temperatures without unrecoverable damage. Measuring frost involves various steps, each which will vary depending on objectives study. This systematic map takes an overall view literature that uses measuring techniques in gymnosperms, focusing mainly conifers. Many different have been used for testing, and there has little change methodology since 2000. The gold standard remains field observation study, which, due its cost, frequently substituted by other techniques. Closed enclosure tests (all non-field tests) are done using types equipment inducing artificial freezing. An examination indicates several factors be controlled order measure a manner similar Equipment allows controlling rate, exposure time thawing rate would obtain results closer studies. Other important study design number test used, range selected decrements between temperatures, should based expected tissue species.