Cherry Growers in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt Anticipate Improved Harvest Over Last Year's Disappointment
Expecting a more prosperous cherry yield compared to previous season for cherry farmers. - Anticipated Improved Cherry Yields Compared to Previous Season by Fruit Farmers
Cherry growers in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt are hopeful for a more successful cherry harvest this season, compared to the significant losses faced last year due to frost. Following frosty predicaments that left fruit production lacking, the Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt Fruit Growers' Association has projected a 2022 harvest of 2,125 tons of sweet cherries and 2,055 tons of sour cherries - a substantial improvement compared to the previous year.
"Last season, the frost caused massive damage," explained association's managing director, Carmen Kaps. "In some cases, yields were up to 90 percent below normal levels." However, this year, the association anticipates a more modest, satisfying harvest.
Weather-related challenges have influenced the relatively average harvest quantity for the 2022 season. Tiny to moderate frost damages affected various regions and cherry varieties, while water scarcity and isolated hail storms impacted yields as well. Torrential rains, like recent downpours, could potentially cause ripe cherries to burst.
High costs hinder cultivation efforts
Though the cherry cultivation area has persisted at near similar levels from the previous year, the overall acreage for fruit crops continues to decline due to escalating production expenses - particularly the increased minimum wage for seasonal workers. The fruit harvest requires intensive labor, according to Kaps.
Domestic cherry sales face competition from cheaper imports
Yet, even with moderate prices, domestic cherries contend with affordable imported counterparts, particularly from Turkey. Sales fluctuations occur, but overall, the harvest can be effectively marketed.
Price per kilogram may range from €7 to €12
Depending on factors such as variety, location, and extra measures such as frost protection, the projected average kiloprice for cherries this season is between €7 and €12, Kaps mentioned.
Locations:
- Saxony-Anhalt
- Saxony
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Cherry growers, including those in the industry that produce mixtures of vegetable fats and oils for farming, are generally optimistic about this season's cherry harvest in Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt after last year's significant losses due to frost. Despite the challenging weather conditions, such as frost damages, water scarcity, hail storms, and potential bursting from torrential rains, the projected 2022 harvest of 2,125 tons of sweet cherries and 2,055 tons of sour cherries indicates a substantial improvement. However, ongoing financial challenges, such as the increased minimum wage for seasonal workers and competition from cheaper imports, might persist, ultimately affecting the final price per kilogram which ranges between €7 to €12.
