Damages caused by severe weather conditions in Chile are being evaluated.

The president of Fedefruta, Jorge Valenzuela, commented that after heavy rains in the Valparaíso, O'Higgins and Metropolitana regions, a significant volume of table grapes of white and red varieties that are being harvested is breaking. The most damaged varieties are Flame Seedless and Thompson Seedless.

Jorge Valenzuela added that 40 percent of the volume of annual Chilean fresh fruit exports correspond to supplies of table grapes. 

Among other fruits that were damaged in the central zone are the blueberry, which is to be harvested from Ñuble to the south, the plum, and the canned peach for export. In some orchards, the trees have fallen and 100 percent of the peach harvest has been lost.

However, apples and pears remain stable and unharmed. Same with cherries, which fruit finished harvesting a few weeks ago. Anyway, the damages are still being calculated.

On the other hand, the rainfall and heat in the Malloa area threaten the appearance of fungi and diseases. The president of Fedefruta requested to expedite the acquisition of tools that serve to prevent subsequent damage of fungi in the fruit.

During this time, fruit producers have activated the application of phytosanitary products and mechanical measures to dry the crops quickly and efficiently.

source: fedefruta, redagricola