The intensifying heatwaves across the globe are putting the spotlight on the urgent need for innovative climate strategies in protected berry production, especially in regions like North Africa and the Mediterranean. This issue is not just about the berries themselves but also about the broader implications for the environment and the resilience of our food systems.
The Impact of Heatwaves on Berry Production
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a significant challenge to berry growers, particularly those in inland areas with extreme temperature variations. Carlos Correia, an agronomist and founder of Berry Adviser, highlights how the location of farms can be a critical factor in determining their resilience to heat stress. The decision to move inland for larger or more affordable land often comes with the trade-off of facing greater temperature extremes.
Infrastructure and Resilience
Most berry operations under protected cultivation, such as polytunnels and greenhouses, rely on shading nets and irrigation management to mitigate heat stress. However, Correia emphasizes the importance of effective cooling systems, which many growers tend to underestimate. While optimizing irrigation and nutrition programs can help up to a certain extent, the real game-changer is often the presence of a misting system that can lower plant temperatures and mitigate the impact of hot, dry air.
Water Quality and Misting Systems
Where misting systems are implemented, water quality becomes a critical consideration. High-pressure misting systems, though ideal, require specialized equipment and a significant investment. Most farms opt for low-pressure systems, which means water quality issues, such as salt accumulation on leaves, can become a major concern if the water is not desalinated.
Balancing Heat and Humidity
Selecting the right protected structure involves a delicate balance between mitigating heat and managing humidity. The Canary-style greenhouse, for instance, performs well during extreme heat when combined with misting. However, after periods of high rainfall, these structures can retain humidity for longer periods, which may not be ideal during the hottest summer months when disease pressure is typically limited due to low outside humidity and air movement through the structures.
Adapting to Climate Variability
As weather patterns become more variable, growers are expected to place greater emphasis on designing protected cultivation systems that can respond to both heat and humidity extremes. This shift towards climate management is becoming an increasingly important aspect of berry production planning. Correia believes that while adapting to these more frequent heatwaves will take time, it is a necessary step towards building a more resilient and sustainable berry industry.
Conclusion
The challenges posed by heatwaves in berry production highlight the intricate relationship between agriculture and climate. As we navigate a changing climate, the need for innovative strategies and resilient infrastructure becomes increasingly evident. It's not just about adapting to the present but also about preparing for the future, ensuring the sustainability and resilience of our food systems.
