In Latvia, an early April heatwave has prematurely awakened flora, leading to the blossoming of plums, apricots, cherries, and the greening of apple and pear trees. This abrupt seasonal shift has prompted concerns among fruit farmers as a subsequent drop in temperature and expected frosts threaten plantations.
Māris Narvils, a horticultural specialist in South Kurzeme, noted the unusual pace of blooming in his garden, including apricots, newly planted cherries, and Caucasian plums. Narvils highlighted the atypical and rapid development of white currants, attributing it to the warm days that have accelerated the blooming of fruit trees and shrubs.
Ligita Rezgale, an experienced apple farmer from the farm Mucenieki, echoed these observations, describing the early heatwave as abnormal and expressing concern over the continued unpredictability of weather patterns. Both Narvils and Rezgale emphasized the need for vigilance and adaptive measures to mitigate the impact of volatile weather on horticulture. Narvils specifically advocated for the establishment of protective plantations to shield fruit trees from cold easterly winds, which can freeze or dry out buds and flowers, especially in open spaces.
Source: eng.lsm.lv