In August, the arrival of cold air masses in Brazil can increase the occurrence of frost. Apple orchards are currently in the dormant phase, during which low temperatures are necessary for the proper development of the next crop. Most apple varieties grown in Brazil require at least 600 hours per year with temperatures below 7.2°C.
To date, chilling hours (HF ≤7.2°C) are above the historical average in all monitored regions. Data from Epagri/Ciram show that between April 1 and August 1, São Joaquim, Santa Catarina, recorded 605 chilling hours, and Fraiburgo, Santa Catarina, recorded 415.5 hours. These totals are 20% and 23% above the historical average, respectively.
In Rio Grande do Sul, no formal survey is conducted, but due to its geographic proximity to Santa Catarina, conditions are reported to be similar. According to INMET, rainfall in August is expected to remain close to the historical average for most of southern Brazil. Temperatures are forecast to be up to 1°C above average across much of the region. In the mountainous areas of Rio Grande do Sul, temperatures are expected to stay below 15°C, which is still above the optimal threshold of below 7°C needed to ensure an adequate dormancy period.
The arrival of cold air masses in August may increase the likelihood of frost in southern Brazil. With the current accumulation of chilling hours, the trend for the 2025/26 season is for production levels to be higher than in the previous harvest.
Source: Abrafrutas
