Severe weather conditions this year have had a detrimental impact on fruit production, significantly affecting both the quantity and quality of the harvest. Experts estimate that the total yield will be between 270,000 and 300,000 tons less than in 2022. The damage extends beyond this year’s crop, with next year’s production expected to suffer due to poorly formed fruit buds.
The warm winter accelerated the growth of fruit trees, but this was followed by a sharp drop in temperatures at the end of March. These extreme conditions led to high transpiration rates, fruit drop, burns in areas without anti-hail nets, and mite infestations even in fields with irrigation systems.
Zoran Keserović, a professor at the Faculty of Agriculture in Novi Sad, detailed the direct damages: “We experienced low temperatures in late April, severe hail damage, and an unprecedented drought during July and August. In my 35 years of experience, I don’t recall such a prolonged dry period.”
The impact on different fruit species varies. Keserović noted that plums have been particularly affected, showing signs of rapid ripening, dehydration, and quick maturation. Apples have also been impacted, but to a lesser extent. These two fruits are major crops in Serbia, and their reduced yield and quality are likely to result in higher prices for consumers. “We can expect that more fruit will be processed rather than stored, especially plums, which were harvested rapidly in Serbia,” Keserović said.
