El Niño's weather patterns have affected the growth and distribution of summer fruits in Rio Grande do Sul, including watermelon, melon, and passion fruit. These fruits are set to hit the market at higher prices due to decreased yield.
Rio Grande do Sul is known for its coastal fruit cultivation, especially during summer. However, this year's climate issues have affected the growth of the region's fruits. The planting of watermelons, a staple in the region, was delayed due to heavy rainfall, resulting in a 20% reduction in the sown area. Below-average spring temperatures also hindered the development of these fruits, which require ample sunlight to achieve their sweetness.
Emater/RS-Ascar rural extension agent, Gervásio Paulus, foresees a smaller quantity of watermelons and melons from Rio Grande do Sul this year, leading to higher prices for consumers. “We will have around 6,500 hectares of watermelons and 600 hectares of melons. It is still difficult to estimate the quantity, but I believe that the quality will not be harmed,” he says.
Watermelon, which takes 80 to 110 days to be harvested, is usually harvested from the first weeks of January. The planting should be done at the end of winter since the species cannot tolerate very low temperatures. “In this year of El Niño, classified as strong, the conditions for the fruit are delayed due to excess rain, but, on the other hand, favorable due to the abundant rain since the crop has practically no irrigation,” Paulus adds.
Last year, 145,000 tons of watermelon and 8,500 tons of melon were harvested in Rio Grande do Sul. However, this year's watermelon harvest is below demand and with visible defects. However, supply does not meet the demand caused by the reduction in planted area.
Despite the slight reduction in area, Paulus is optimistic about the cultivation of passion fruit, another characteristic fruit of the coast of Rio Grande do Sul. In the case of pineapple, a perennial crop primarily grown in the terra de sand variety, the weather should not cause any harm as producers carry out treatment for floral induction and anticipation of production.
Source: abrafrutas.org