Reference_Standard-Graphics_quality_winter_A_and

'Reference Standard quality winter A and B':

A reference norm for testing hardiness in USDA-zone 7

These Standards are to be met, to ensure the successful trialing the winter-hardiness in USDA-zone 7. During the whole of the testing period 1985 to 1995, did we have two winters that met the Standard. The two winters as displayed below are valid to test for winter-hardiness of fuchsias in countries /areas in USDA-zone 7 (or higher).

'Reference Standard quality winter A and B'

- Quality winter A : the winter of 1986/1987 - 'frostnumber' 32 - number of 'ice days' 24 - positive influence: a good cover of snow during the extreme cold days:

' Graphic quality winter A'

- Quality winter B : the winter of 1990/1991 - 'frostnumber' 18 - number of 'ice days' 11 - negative influence: a period of harsh windy days, with a drying influence. The weather reporter's comments were: 'it is minus 14°C(7°F), but it feels like 25°C(13°F)':

'Graphic quality winter B'

During 1991, 90 of the tested cultivars were awarded the status Ned-H3 'winterhard'. They had met the Standard of 'Quality winter A' and/or 'Quality winter B'.

The winter of 1993/1994 did meet the Standards for winter A and B. We were able to add another 20 to the Ned-H3 range.

'Gelderse Fuchsia Info-site' - November 2008