Cold Weather (CW), a.k.a. Winter Strains, fruit early spring and late fall in the North and throughout the winter in the South, producing highly saleable mushrooms when the availability of other fresh produce is limited. Everyone welcomes their appearance. These strains require a longer spawn run (9-12 months) than WR strains, but they-re well worth the extra wait when the natural rise and fall of wintry temperatures initiates their fruitful, carefree harvests and gives each of their caps a unique, exquisitely detailed pattern. 

Note that in the North, early spring crops may need protection from drying winds.  See fruiting blankets.