Persistent rainfall in parts of Flanders is currently a major concern for fruit growers. There are already widespread concerns about the impact on the upcoming harvest due to excessive wetness, but according to grower Bert Morren, it is too early to draw conclusions. "It has actually been this wet since October 2023. Last week was briefly drier, but otherwise, we have seen an exceptional amount of rain in recent months. It's not dramatic yet, but it really needs to stop soon," says Bert Morren of Fruitbedrijf Morren.
A picture of last year's effects at Bert's place
If tree roots remain submerged in water for too long, they can rot and die. "We already experienced the consequences of this last year," he continues. "Many trees didn't survive. We haven't replaced them yet because we would have faced the same issue this year. Trees on lower plots flood quickly, and younger trees are especially vulnerable to water damage."
Excess water leads to oxygen deficiency, damages roots, and makes trees more susceptible to fungi. "Let's hope it dries up soon, or we may see a repeat of last year. First came the rain, then the hail, and after that, the bacterial disease pseudomonas took hold. This disease thrives in cold and wet conditions, which led to a 50% crop loss last year."
For now, however, the grower—who has already sold all his pears for this season—remains cautiously optimistic. "Nothing is certain yet about the upcoming harvest, but if we want to avoid a repeat of last year, the rain really needs to slow down. We are currently in full pruning season, and drier weather would make that job a lot more pleasant," he concludes with a smile.
For more information:
Bert Morren
Fruitbedrijf Morren
Groenstraat 6
3470 Kortenaken, Belgium
+32 474 76 46 69
fruitmorren@outlook.com
www.streekproductenmorren.be