Recent cold weather has inflicted significant damage on fruit crops in Serbia, particularly apricots, with losses in some regions reaching up to 95%, according to Zoran Keserović, a professor at the Agricultural Faculty in Novi Sad.

The early warm temperatures in January and February accelerated the budding of generative shoots, leading to vulnerability during the unseasonably late frosts on March 18 and 19.

Keserović noted that this pattern of fluctuating temperatures has occurred repeatedly over the past decade.

The frosts have particularly impacted fruit varieties that were in full bloom or approaching bloom, notably the apricot and the jujube.

Specifically, apricots were nearing full flowering stages when the frosts struck, along with some cherry varieties, particularly the 'Kordija'.

In Vojvodina, a significant apricot production area, losses have surpassed 90%.

In the vicinity of Belgrade, production areas such as Zaklopača reported damages ranging from 40% to 50%.

The extent of damage in Fruška Gora varies by variety, with certain strains, including NS-6, NS-4, and the new 'Jelena' variety, showing notable resilience against the cold.

Conversely, early-flowering varieties suffered losses exceeding 90%.

Last year, late spring frosts resulted in substantial fruit losses in Serbia, estimated between 160,000 and 200,000 tons.

Some farmers implemented anti-frost measures, which helped mitigate damage.

Techniques included the use of thermal ventilation systems, known as frost-busters, which introduced warm air into orchards, as well as smoke management through the burning of straw.

Keserović emphasized that the most effective method for frost protection is the use of anti-frost systems.

Additionally, he noted the potential of a new system called 'SPAG', currently utilized in Spain, Portugal, and Romania, which has not yet been adopted widely in Serbia.

This system involves the installation of towers equipped with propellers that circulate warmer air when temperatures drop below zero, capable of protecting crops down to minus four degrees Celsius, and even lower with additional heating mechanisms.

Funding for such protective measures in other countries has often been supported by local governments.

Keserović illustrated this with a system observed in Spain, where one tower protects approximately seven hectares of land.

In Serbia, the loss of such acreage would represent a significant economic setback, particularly given the ongoing challenges posed by recent climatic conditions.

Keserović further underscored the importance of selecting suitable fruit varieties for specific agro-ecological conditions.

In 2024, fruit production contributed 17.8% to the total value of agricultural output, according to the Republic Statistical Office.

The overall plant production saw a decline of 12.1% compared to 2023, primarily influenced by adverse climatic conditions.

Furthermore, the fruit sector experienced a slight decrease of 1.3% year-over-year, as reported by the statistical agency.