Brazil: Phytosanitary challenges affect watermelon harvest in Rio Grande do Sul

The watermelon growing season in the Santa Maria region, especially in São Francisco de Assis, covered an area of 450 hectares, 90% of which has already been harvested. However, producers faced serious difficulties due to the incidence of downy mildew and anthracnose, which caused considerable damage to plantations. Faced with significant losses, many farmers turned to agricultural insurance, as indicated by the latest report in the Emater/RS-Ascar Situational Information. In Soledade, the harvest was completed in Encruzilhada, while in Rio Pardo, the activities are about to be concluded. In Rio Pardo, it was observed that later plantations had better quality in terms of flavor and fruit size. Overall productivity was within expectations, with minimal losses. However, early plantings were severely affected by adverse weather conditions, including excessive rainfall and lack of sunshine. In addition to climate challenges, crops faced problems ...