Cold weather troubles potato harvest in Belgium and farmers grow attention to the forecasting

Belgium experienced a long dry period followed by a very wet one resulting in about 70% of potatoes still having to be grubbed. For that reason farmers were not able to start off harvesting properly and fields were laying the roots still, it has been reported last week. The weather forecasting for the upcoming days looks good. This week we had firm days so a better output is deemed one producer advised. "The longer we wait, the more difficult it'll become. Especially now that morning temperatures are around 5 to 6°C."

“Yields are very average. I expect that once everything's been dug up, supply and demand will be in balance. Prices are currently rebounding too. Still, it remains to be seen how the coronavirus will develop. The virus could disrupt the market for a second time. That could adversely affect exports. However, we hope everything goes well. And if things go wrong, we hope everyone will intervene in time."

Relevant to say that a shifting on the weather is yet again perceived.

Sweet potatoes will also be grubbed soon. "We have slightly lower yields this year. That's because we had some cold days in July. That's a crucial month. August partially made up for that. But the days are already a lot shorter than in August. That's why the sweet potatoes are a little smaller than last year. We're, however, very satisfied with the quality. For now, it's vital to bring everything inside. Then we can see how things look". Concluded the farming company CEO.