Brazil's fruit growers concerned about atypical weather

Brazil's fruit sector is concerned about the atypical weather conditions affecting fruit growing in the country, especially in temperate crops such as apples. These plants require a period of winter cold to go dormant and prepare adequately for the next growing season. However, recent temperatures have been well above the usual averages, with averages of 20 degrees and peaks above 30 degrees since the beginning of April, according to data from the Brazilian Association of Producers and Exporters of Fruit and Fruit Derivatives (ABRAFRUTAS).

 

This lack of cold prevents the plants from entering senescence, an essential process where the leaves fall naturally, allowing the plant to conserve energy in its branches for the next harvest. Instead, the leaves age prematurely and lose their ability to photosynthesise effectively. This situation compromises the accumulation of reserves needed for good budding, resulting in fruits of lower quantity and quality.

 

Excessive heat and humidity also create an environment conducive to disease development. Susceptible varieties lose their leaves prematurely, while more resistant varieties tend to retain them longer, exacerbating the problem. Orchards, particularly apple orchards, have experienced leaf drop since February, affecting the plants' ability to accumulate necessary energy reserves.

Faced with a warm winter forecast with above-average temperatures, farmers are forced to adapt. They are using products that induce leaf fall and adjusting temperature conditions to break plant dormancy in a controlled manner.