Climate Change Threatens Yield and Quality in Fruiting

In recent years, the lack of sufficient cold conditions for the normal development of fruit trees during the fall and winter months can lead to disruptions in winter rest. Irregular development of buds, weakening of foliage and growth, deformities in flowers, and, in some cases, the plant's shift to vegetative development can reduce the yield of the following year. This also reduces the amount of fruit harvested per unit area and the profitability of the producer.

Heatwaves in January and February can cause plants to wake up early and bloom. Early blooming flowers are exposed to late frosts, which can be seen in April and May; even a few hours of frost can cause complete damage to the flowers and the crop of that year. During summer months, excessive temperatures and lack of rainfall cause fruit to remain small or dry, reducing weight and sugar content. Increased solar radiation causes sunburn on fruits, lowering market value.

Storms with hail and strong winds cause mechanical damage to fruits and increase the risk of disease. While damaged products cannot be used for first-class fresh consumption, they can be processed and sent to industry if harvested in time. In the face of these conditions, the source recommends investment in new orchards equipped with full coverage and sun-protective nets, drip irrigation, fertirrigation, and freeze-fighting systems. However, it is stated that fruiting and frost protection in areas without irrigation water will not be sustainable.