Austria’s fruit and vegetable farmers are “largely satisfied” with this year’s season. The harvest so far can be described as “good and high quality,” according to the Chamber of Agriculture (LKÖ) and the Austrian Fruit and Vegetable Association (ÖBOG). Farmers had to take significant measures to achieve this, including elaborate frost protection in some fruit-growing areas and intensive irrigation during the hot and dry month of June.
The June weather led to an increase in pests such as aphids, while rain brought a rise in plant diseases like phytophthora. “Plant protection remains a major concern for vegetable farmers, alongside high labor-related costs and the resulting lack of competitiveness,” said LKÖ President Josef Moosbrugger and ÖBOG Chairman Manfred Kohlfürst. Both organizations are calling for improvements at national and EU levels.
Hot June followed by rainy July
Overall, weather conditions were mostly favorable for vegetable cultivation, according to farmer representatives. While the hot, dry June impacted growth, irrigation allowed farmers to still achieve good quality. However, some regions in Austria suffered significant hail damage to crops.
Fruit growers were mostly spared from frost damage this year, with only a few exceptions in stone fruit regions, where expensive frost protection was required. Localized hailstorms caused serious damage despite the use of hail nets. Overall, fruit growers rate the 2024 season as “good.” Apple and pear growers expect an “average but solid” harvest, while berry season has been “overall positive.”
Many cherries spoiled by spotted wing drosophila
The cherry harvest is already complete, while other stone fruits are still being picked. Insect pests — including stink bugs and the invasive spotted wing drosophila — have damaged some crops. Although only the best fruit reaches consumers, many cherries must be discarded due to the drosophila, which first arrived in Austria in 2011.
Industry representatives are urging more flexibility in pest and weed control. “A sufficient toolbox for plant protection remains the top political priority in fruit farming,” said LKÖ President Moosbrugger. “With many crops, we are already reaching the limits of what is feasible,” added ÖBOG head Kohlfürst, noting that certain diseases and pests are becoming nearly impossible to manage with the available means.
