The Moldovan horticultural sector has experienced challenges due to recent late frosts, with over 8650 hectares of orchards affected, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry. IPN reports that apricot, plum, cherry, walnut, and apple trees have been significantly impacted, particularly by persistently low temperatures over several nights.
Estimates indicate reductions in the apricot and plum harvest by up to 45%, while cherry losses may reach 55%. Heavy rains have compounded the issue by causing fruit cracking. Estimated decreases for peaches and cherries are 25-30%, and for apples and walnuts, 15-20%.
Sugar beet cultivation has also been impacted across over 6900 hectares, with farmers needing to reseed more than 6800 hectares, as confirmed by supporting documents.
The authorities are reviewing measures alongside the fruit growing sector's representatives. Strategies include compensation for losses, prioritizing affected farmers, and finding funding sources to cover financial damages.
Though May's rains aided partial tree regeneration, the Ministry states the frost's impact in April means the full harvest loss cannot be recovered. Finalized damage assessments will be provided after data validation from field reports, as specified by authorities.
Source: IPN