Challenging El Niño: Strategies for the survival of avocados and blueberries in Peru
Last season in northern Peru, specifically in 2023, blueberry and avocado crops faced considerable challenges due to adverse weather conditions. Lizzeth Miranda, a Peruvian agro-industrial engineer with experience in agribusiness and quality, highlights the importance of technical agricultural management to mitigate the effects of climatic events such as Cyclone Yaku and high temperatures, which impacted fruit yields and quality.
Miranda explains that during the last growing season, representative blueberry varieties in Peru, such as Biloxi and Ventura, experienced a reduction in size, limiting exports to China. In addition, avocado cultivation was challenged by high temperatures, affecting quality and causing post-harvest problems, including the detection of anthracnose due to high rainfall levels.
These challenges highlight the need for adaptability and resilience in agricultural practices, especially in response to climate change. Miranda emphasizes the importance of monitoring and adjusting strategies to mitigate future impacts, focusing on good agricultural and manufacturing practices. Regarding the upcoming season, with El Niño forecasts affecting the first quarter, Miranda advises comprehensive and preventative strategies to maintain crop quality.
In Miranda's words, "Last season taught us that technical agricultural management is fundamental to mitigating these effects." She also emphasized the importance of "finding a balance between effective crop protection and protecting consumer health," stressing the need for sustainable and responsible agricultural practices.
