Czech fruit harvest hits century-low due to frosts

Czechia's fruit harvest fell 65% in 2024 to 48,058 tonnes, the lowest in 100 years, after severe April frosts damaged flowering crops, the Central Institute for Agricultural Inspection and Testing said on Tuesday. The frost-related losses are estimated at CZK 1.3 billion, with apple production dropping 68% from the five-year average to 36,040 tonnes.

To support recovery, the EU and the Czech government allocated CZK 445 million, with 539 growers applying for aid. Apple growers, who were hardest hit, will receive CZK 341 million, with payments due by January 31, 2025. The Fruit Growers' Union says this assistance will help stabilize production for the next season.

Stone fruits saw severe declines, with cherry and sour cherry harvests down 83% and 72%, respectively, while plums dropped 60%. Currants, raspberries, and other small fruits also experienced sharp reductions.