The prolonged dry period has significantly impacted vegetable production in the region, as reported by Radio Television of Vojvodina. Due to the increased need for irrigation, the costs of vegetable production have surged by 30 percent, leading to diminished profit expectations for growers this season.
The heat wave has affected both greenhouse and open-field production. Despite applying proper agricultural techniques and plant care, the adverse effects of the drought are evident.
Toša Krainov, a vegetable grower from Čurug, highlights the challenges faced on his farm, which grows a variety of vegetables. Frequent irrigation due to high temperatures has driven up costs. Krainov points out that their potatoes, left in the grass, spoil less than last year, which suffered sun damage. They have harvested three fields of sweet corn and are preparing for more, but the need for continuous watering has increased expenses. Moreover, the corn deteriorates quickly, losing freshness by the next day, which affects its market value.
In addition to open-field cultivation, Krainov’s farm includes a 200-square-meter greenhouse dedicated to tomatoes. He notes that greenhouse production is particularly challenging this year due to extreme heat, leading to increased watering and feeding requirements, and disappointing production outcomes.
The Krains anticipate no increase in profit this season, attributing this to both reduced yields and lower demand due to weaker consumer purchasing power.
