Belgium and the Netherlands breathe a sigh of relief, but Austria, Switzerland, and Northern Italy remain on high alert
While fruit growers in Belgium and the Netherlands have mostly avoided serious frost damage in recent days, the situation in the Alpine region — especially in Austria, Switzerland, and Northern Italy — remains tense. Early varieties of stone fruits, such as apricots, cherries, and peaches, are already in bloom or early fruit set, making them particularly vulnerable.
Austria: Warning systems and local protection measures
In Styria and Lower Austria, where the country’s largest orchards are located, temperatures dropped below -2°C on several April nights. Many growers implemented frost protection measures such as fire pots, sprinkler irrigation, and wind machines, thanks to early warnings from agrometeorological services. Nevertheless, it is estimated that up to 30% of the apricot crop is at risk, especially in lower-altitude areas.
Switzerland: Focus on high-value varieties
In the canton of Valais, known for its stone fruit production, growers used advanced protection techniques such as anti-frost micro-sprayers and tree covers. According to the Federal Office for Agriculture, up to 40% of early cherry varieties were damaged by frost in some areas. In Ticino, where apricots have already passed the flowering stage, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging farmers to report losses.
Northern Italy: Alarm in Trentino-South Tyrol
Early signs of frost impact are observed in Trentino-Alto Adige, which produces over 60% of Italy’s apples. While apples and pears are not yet in bloom, early apricot varieties in the Adige Valley have already been affected. Official damage assessments are still pending, but early estimates suggest losses could reach 20 to 30%.
Although parts of Western Europe have escaped the worst-case scenarios, the Alpine region remains at risk. Fruit growers in Austria, Switzerland, and Northern Italy must stay vigilant throughout April. Advanced protection methods are helping mitigate losses, but a renewed frost event could lead to significant yield reductions, especially in export-oriented regions like Ticino and Trentino. This may also affect fruit market prices across Europe in the coming months.
