In Hungary, the climatic conditions have been conducive to the early ripening of melons, including watermelons, with no adverse weather affecting their development. The Association of Hungarian Melon Growers has indicated that Hungarian watermelons are expected to hit the market by June 10, with availability in supermarkets to follow shortly. Mátyás Göcző, the federal president, noted the critical phase of removing the foil covering to facilitate further growth. Despite a rise in production costs, the sector benefits from a decrease in fertilizer prices.
The melon cultivation landscape in Hungary has evolved, with production now more efficient despite a reduction in the area cultivated. The current production area has increased to 2,900 hectares, with an anticipated yield of 140-160,000 tons. This shift is partly due to the loss of export markets to Southern European competitors, prompting Hungarian producers to adopt new technologies and melon varieties. Now, 95% of the melon production area is dedicated to grafted and hybrid melons, enhancing competitiveness and disease resistance.
The introduction of foil production has also allowed for an earlier start to the melon season, contributing to the sector's efficiency and the maintenance of quality and taste.
Source: trademagazin.hu