The El Niño phenomenon is emerging as one of the main concerns for Peruvian blueberry growers ahead of the new season. This was highlighted by Fernando Villagrán, international blueberry production advisor at CASM Blueberries, following technical visits to fields located in Ica, Trujillo, and Olmos.
According to Villagrán, the high temperatures recorded in recent weeks are already beginning to raise concerns within the industry, particularly due to their impact on plant productivity and the increased risk of pests and diseases.
According to the advisor, the commercial outlook has been positive for producers who are currently harvesting. “During my recent visits across Peru, I observed strong prices for growers who are harvesting. Even those without sufficient export volumes are achieving very good prices in the domestic market,” Villagrán commented.
However, he noted that climatic conditions are keeping the industry on alert. “There is already growing concern regarding the El Niño phenomenon, as temperatures have not decreased over the past few weeks and have remained nearly two degrees above a normal year,” he stated.
Nutritional adjustments and vigor management to stimulate production
In response to this scenario, Villagrán explained that current advisory efforts are focused on implementing agronomic strategies aimed at controlling plant vigor and promoting a timely transition into the productive cycle.
“In general, during our visits we are working on programs to control vigor and ensure that the plants enter the productive cycle properly, initiating flowering induction and differentiation at the right time. To achieve this, nutritional and irrigation adjustments are being implemented, along with bio-stimulation strategies tailored to each specific case,” he explained.
The advisor added that one of the main goals for growers is to avoid production delays caused by unfavorable weather conditions. “What producers are seeking is to enter production as early as possible and avoid delays resulting from these climatic effects,” he stated.
Increased pressure from pests and diseases
Villagrán also warned about the potential increase in pest and disease pressure associated with rising temperatures.
“Close attention must be paid to pests and diseases that may increase their pressure due to these rising temperatures, especially thrips and diseases such as Alternaria,” he warned.
In this context, he emphasized the importance of strengthening phytosanitary monitoring and adjusting management strategies to minimize risks during the upcoming season.
