Global warming is increasingly affecting agriculture in Ukraine, putting traditional crops like potatoes, cabbage, and cucumbers at risk.
According to Vera Balabukh, a climate scientist at the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute, rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are making it harder to grow these crops under traditional conditions.
"Potatoes are particularly sensitive to high temperatures. In June, when they begin to develop mass, excessive soil heat can cause them to rot. Southern Ukraine is already experiencing unfavorable conditions for potato cultivation," Balabukh explained.
She suggests that farmers may need to adjust planting schedules or adopt new cultivation techniques to maintain stable yields. This issue, she notes, extends beyond Ukraine and requires agronomic innovation worldwide.
Growing cucumbers and cabbage in open fields is becoming increasingly difficult due to moisture shortages.
The success of this year's harvest will largely depend on rainfall during the growing season. While frequent light rains are beneficial, heavy downpours can negatively impact yields. Balabukh advises farmers to monitor short-term weather forecasts, as they provide more precise details on frost risks and precipitation levels.
Source: glavcom.ua