Dramatic spring frost: fruit growers’ prospects worsen, nationwide frost damage hits plantations

The air of arctic origin arriving behind a strong cold front on Saturday (April 5) had already made its impact felt by Sunday: light frost developed in a large area. By Monday morning, the cooling had become nationwide, with values ​​between -1 and -6 degrees Celsius being measured, and in fact, the temperature even dropped below -8 degrees in several growing regions – writes fruitveb.hu.

This temperature drop has a damaging effect regardless of the fruit variety, especially if it persists for a long time. In recent days, the frost effect lasted for 12 hours, of which 6-8 hours were in the critical temperature range for plant damage, which can cause serious crop losses.

Affected species and regions

The northeastern part of the country, where two-thirds of the domestic fruit-growing areas are located, is most severely affected. Early stone fruits – such as apricots and almonds – have already bloomed across the country, and the flowering period of peaches, sour cherries, cherries and plums is currently underway. These species are particularly sensitive to frost at this time, and temperatures below -2 °C can cause significant damage. Based on current data, 90% of fruit-growing areas have suffered frost damage to some extent.

Farmers defended themselves – with little result

Although producers tried to use frost protection – by using heat-generating machines, spraying, fumigation, and wind machines – these methods proved to be insufficient against the extreme cold and its long duration.

The damage assessment is still ongoing, but according to those in the sector, it can already be stated that a significant part of this year’s fruit harvest has been lost. Exact damage figures are expected by the beginning of next week.