The night of April 27 to 28, 2025, presented challenges for Ukrainian fruit farmers, as noted by EastFruit experts. This third wave of spring frosts affected later-blooming and frost-resistant orchards, including apple and pear trees. The event raises questions about the 2025 fruit harvest in Ukraine and its potential impact.
Nighttime temperatures varied significantly, with lowland orchards experiencing -5°C to -6°C, potentially damaging blooming crops. In contrast, hilly areas within the same regions saw temperatures 3 - 4°C higher, reducing crop loss risks.
Vinnytsia Oblast, known as Ukraine's horticultural capital, reported the most complaints about possible crop losses, indicating similar challenges for orchardists in neighboring Moldova. Despite this, most farmers expect minimal losses for apple and pear orchards, although some quality issues may arise, affecting long-term storage suitability. Stone fruit crops, having already bloomed, likely withstood the frost without major losses, though those still flowering might face additional damage. Reports also highlight damage to strawberry plantations.
Growers caution that frost risks may persist until May 17. According to the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center, short-term cold snaps in May 2025 could further complicate matters, especially in central and western regions.
Given earlier frost losses, stone fruit production, including cherries and peaches, is expected to be low, with imports from southern EU countries, Turkey, and Central Asia filling the gap. Summer raspberry yields are also expected to decrease. Blueberries appear unaffected. Apple harvests might not see a significant reduction, but assessments will be clearer by mid-May.
The Ministry of Agrarian Policy of Ukraine reported that in 2024, only 20% of horticultural farms had modern frost protection technologies, highlighting industry vulnerability to climate change.
Source: EastFruit