The last few years have varied in terms of weather, making it difficult for producers to plan their crops accordingly. 2021 had high amounts of rain, while 2022 was relatively dry. 2023 so far has consisted of a two-month drought from May onwards, followed by weeks of rain.
Although the rain was initially welcome for a number of crops, including grains as well as fruits and vegetables, the overabundance of precipitation could become an obstacle rather than a benefit.
Owners of Luxembourg’s orchards and vineyards are hoping for a dry period as they approach the harvest. The rain has helped to ripen many fruits such as plums and mirabelle plums, but without dry weather, the produce may rot before it is picked. Other crops, such as apricots, do not flourish under excessive rain, as the overabundance of moisture can make the trees sick.
Vegetable crops, such as lettuce, may also be prone to sickness with too much rain. A number of fields in Contern, for example, have high amounts of surface water following this week’s heavy showers.
Video report in Luxembourgish:
