The Region of Murcia's 2024 lemon season is nearing its end with a positive balance for the sector. Production has been 20% lower than in the previous season, but prices have been more favorable for growers. According to data from the Lemon and Grapefruit Inter-branch Association (Ailimpo), the region produced nearly one million tons, including varieties such as Verna and Fino lemons.
In contrast, production in the 2023 season stood at 1.5 million tons, nearly 400,000 tons of which remained unharvested. The drop in volume this year is mainly attributed to the impact of pests and diseases, although the supply adjustment has contributed to improving the farmers' profitability.
The economic results have been better, despite the health setbacks, stated José Hernández, president of Ailimpo. The main phytosanitary threats include thrips and the lemon moth, also known as the prays, which attacks flowers and prevents the fruit from developing. This latter pest is causing concern in the sector about the next season, scheduled to start at the end of September.
Hernández also warned that recent rains and high temperatures could negatively affect flowering, which increases uncertainty about the next harvest. Despite all the issues, the sector considers the balance of the season is favorable, thanks to the balance between production and prices.
Source: orm.es