Temperatures dropping below 0°C during the vegetation period can severely affect fruit trees and vineyards, especially during the flowering phase. Experts recommend a range of risk mitigation measures, IPN reports.
As meteorologists forecast frost over the coming days, with minimum temperatures expected to reach as low as -5°C, specialists advise taking measures such as fumigation (by burning straw or plant residues) and sprinkler irrigation in intensive orchards.
Other recommended methods include forced air ventilation and the use of anti-frost systems, including those based on infrared radiation.
The most vulnerable species to frost are apricots, peaches, cherries, sour cherries, apples, walnuts, hazelnuts, and early grape varieties.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, if losses are recorded, farmers must notify local authorities within 24 hours. The mayor will convene a commission that will assess the damage in the field and draw up a damage report within six working days.
This report is officially registered and can later be used to renegotiate payment deadlines with banks, suppliers, and other creditors.
At the same time, the Ministry encourages farmers to insure their crops. The state subsidizes up to 70% of the insurance premium. In 2024, 502 applications were submitted, and through the subsidy mechanism, over 61 million lei were paid from the state budget to cover insurance premiums.
