In W33 in the strawberry landscape, despite challenging weather conditions, including a colder June and July heat, strawberries have a successful growing season in Newfoundland, Canada. The warm weather accelerated the ripening process due to faster photosynthesis, resulting in an abundant crop. Horticulturalists from the Memorial University Botanical Gardens attributed the fruitful season to the absence of late frost and the impact of temperature on the herbaceous perennial strawberries.
The Tecnológico of Costa Rica (TEC) has collaborated with strawberry producers in the north of Cartago to enhance their crop quality and productivity. The initiative, backed by the School of Biology and the Center for Research in Biotechnology (CIB), involves guidance to several producers. The collaboration encompasses in vitro establishment of high-yield strawberry varieties, protocol optimization for plant mass multiplication, greenhouse acclimatization training, and advice on managing the Botrytis fungus affecting strawberry crops. The project aims to improve plant health, extend postharvest shelf life, and enhance soil health through beneficial microorganisms.
The National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (Senamhi) reported that the production of strawberries in Lima, particularly short-day varieties, faces potential disruption due to high temperatures attributed to the Coastal El Niño weather phenomenon. The warm day and night temperatures have the potential to adversely impact flowering and fruiting stages, particularly affecting short-day varieties capable of flowering with minimal light exposure. The forecast anticipates unfavorable conditions for flowering and fruiting in areas like Carabayllo, Camay, Huayán, Donoso, Sayán, Yangas, and Cañete due to elevated night temperatures that could reach critical values of 18°C, specifically affecting varieties like Sabrina. While some areas like Pacarán and Lunahuaná might experience more favorable conditions, high temperatures above 26°C could hinder optimal flowering, leading to potential water stress, increased pest and disease incidence, and decreased fruiting percentages.
Lastly, the Association of Belgian Horticultural Cooperatives reported strawberry prices have consistently remained above the five-year average due to weather-related factors, resulting in an average of over USD 6.86 per kilogram (kg) (EUR 6.35/kg) in W32.
