Grape harvest delayed in the southwest of SP
The grape harvest in the southwest of São Paulo is delayed due to unexpected cold weather affecting the fruit's development.
In the southwest region of São Paulo, grape producers are facing delays in their harvest this year, unlike other regions in the state where the grape collection has already been completed. The drop in temperatures has posed constant concerns for farmers, such as Roney Gonçalves, who cultivates various grape varieties. He highlights that excessive rain, cold, or sun can severely impact the grapes, particularly during the critical acidity phase. This year's unpredictable weather patterns have resulted in smaller bunch sizes and a lack of uniformity in grape quality, affecting the overall yield.
Farmers like Valdir Xisto, who manages seven hectares of vineyards, are also struggling with challenging market conditions alongside weather-related delays. With careful vineyard management practices in place, including protective bags around clusters to enhance fruit quality, growers are doing their best to adapt to the adverse climatic conditions. The delay in the harvest affects not just the farmers but also the market as they navigate through these tough times trying to meet quality expectations in a fluctuating environment.
Such weather disruptions not only highlight the vulnerability of the agricultural sector to climate change but also pose broader economic implications for local economies reliant on grape production. Producers now face the dual challenge of balancing their crop management with the uncertainties of nature, seeking to secure their livelihoods in a rapidly changing climate.