Vitulija Kuliešienė, President of the Lithuanian Fruit and Berries Association, has attributed recent agricultural losses to severe frost damage, suggesting that the primary cause originated during the winter months rather than the spring. According to Kuliešienė, the damaging frosts occurred when temperatures dropped significantly, while the ground remained unfrozen and the roots were still active. She noted that the apple tree branches were heavily covered in frost during this period.
Kuliešienė pointed out a notable discrepancy when comparing the timing of the damage to the seasonal norms. She stated that the severity of the frost was not replicated in the spring, despite the blooming process beginning. The expert observed that even after some apple trees managed to blossom, the structural damage ultimately led to the death of the trees themselves.
She emphasized that the impact was widespread, affecting even varieties typically known for their resilience. Despite these challenges, she highlighted the inherent strengths of certain local cultivars. Specifically, the lithuanian varieties—including ‘Auksis’, ‘Noris’, and ‘Skaistis’—have been extensively tested and recognized for their high resistance to frost damage.
The discussion among agricultural specialists, including those in the scientific community, appears to align on the timing of the critical event. The focus remains on understanding the precise environmental conditions that prevailed there during the winter months, as these conditions appear to have compromised the trees’ ability to withstand the subsequent seasonal changes. The association continues to monitor the situation to help farmers avoid costly agricultural mistakes.
Topics: #there #lithuanian #winter
