At the walnut trade day, a collaboration between the National Chamber of Agriculture, the Hungarian Vegetable and Fruit Association (FruitVeB), and Szatmári Diókert Kft., it was discussed that despite the expansion of walnut plantations in Hungary from 6,000 to over 9,200 hectares in the last decade, yields have not seen a corresponding increase. The average yield remains low, not exceeding 1-1.5 tons per hectare, in stark contrast to competitors' averages of 4-5 tons per hectare. The underperformance was attributed to the prevalence of neglected plantations with poor cultivation technology. However, in well-cultivated plantations where intensive cultivation practices are applied, yields can reach an average of 3 tons per hectare.
To enhance the competitiveness of the Hungarian walnut industry, there's a need for improvements, including the adoption of varieties suited to the local growing conditions and a focus on spring protection to combat fungal and bacterial diseases and pests. This includes developing a manageable crown shape and regular pruning to facilitate continuous renewal of the fruiting parts.
Despite a flourishing market from 2006 to 2019, the demand for Hungarian walnuts has stalled. With an annual production of 6,450 tons, Hungary ranks 30th globally among nut-producing countries. The global market is currently stable, though drought conditions may reduce yields in Australian and Californian plantations by 10-15%.
There has been a noticeable decline in the export of domestic nuts, both shelled and as nut kernels. Market preferences have shifted towards smaller, more affordable nuts, a trend driven by supermarket expansions. Hungarian walnut varieties, typically larger in size, are often sold in juice form or in bulk due to packaging constraints in supermarkets.
Industry stakeholders concur on the necessity of transitioning from extensive to intensive cultivation techniques to boost yield averages and efficiency. This includes adopting water-saving irrigation, mechanization of harvesting, and targeted plant protection and nutrient management. Hungary boasts internationally recognized nut varieties, though it was noted that locally bred varieties perform differently across various production areas, influencing breed selection.
Financial support for farmers looking to implement these advancements will be available through the KAP Strategic Plan, with applications for planting horticultural plantations opening on September 10. The National Chamber of Agrarian Economy is committed to providing its members with practical, current information, organizing professional days across various themes, including the recent walnut professional day in the Szatmár growing area.
Source: Trade Magazin