Tomato yields drop in Bahia due to extreme heat and drought

From February to March 2025, tomato crops in Irecê, Bahia (Brazil) were severely impacted by high temperatures and scarce rainfall, leading to a significant drop in yields during the April harvest. According to local media reports, average temperatures reached 35°C, while rainfall totaled just 15.4 mm, well below seasonal norms.

These conditions disrupted plant development and increased pest pressure, particularly from whiteflies and borers. The issue was worsened by the limited use of pest-tolerant or resistant plant materials. However, Tuta absoluta (tomato leafminer) was less severe this season compared to past years.

Yields fell from an average of 300 boxes per 1,000 plants in March to 200–250 boxes in April, a sharp decline from the 350 boxes reported in the same period last year. The April harvest came from crops transplanted in January and February, during peak heat.

Due to low water reserves, producers are now adjusting planting strategies across crops, anticipating possible irrigation shortages. No grafting or greenhouse techniques are currently used in the region. Improved yields are expected for tomatoes transplanted from May onward, when cooler conditions typically begin.

source: hfbrasil.org.br

photo: seedstrust.com