Switzerland recorded a sharp decline in fruit yields

The Swiss Fruit Association (SOV) has released a report indicating mixed results for the 2021 summer fruit and berry harvest. The season has seen significant losses in crop yields due to adverse weather conditions, including spring frosts and summer hail, particularly affecting cherry, plum, and apricot production. The total harvest for these fruits was 1,500 tons of cherries, 1,300 tons of plums, and 2,200 tons of apricots, marking a decrease from previous years.

However, despite these challenges, the berry sector, especially those grown indoors in modern film tunnels, has managed to remain profitable. This trend highlights the importance of advanced horticultural infrastructure in mitigating the effects of adverse weather and ensuring crop resilience. The SWO's report underscores the critical need for continued support and investment in the modernization of horticultural farms to enhance the sustainability and profitability of agricultural production in Switzerland. The estimated damage to fruit tree infrastructure is in the tens of millions, underscoring the severe impact of the weather conditions on the industry.