The drought is not only causing problems in potato and onion cultivation, the carrot market is also suffering. In Belgium, for example, it is currently too dry to harvest and there are many problems with mildew. What is the situation on the German carrot market?
The harvest of storage carrots has started in Germany, although the yield is not that bad. "In the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, for example, 30% to 40% cannot be irrigated. This is reflected in the yields," says Pieter Gabriëls, director of Bejo Zaden Germany. "In general, an average yield can be expected in Germany, with downward peaks in North Rhine-Westphalia and upward peaks around the Dithmarschen region." In Germany's other major root region, Rhineland-Palatinate, the expected yield is also average. "In this region, growers can irrigate with water from the Rhine."
According to Gabriëls, the fact that carrot yields will not exceed average is mainly due to the poor emergence at the beginning of this season and the drought during the season. "In addition, it is still very dry in Germany. This is a problem for storage carrots, because sand also has to go into the box. At the moment, this is mainly a problem on lighter soils."
Quality remains good
The quality is good, like earlier was also predicted. "There are clearly fewer problems with carrot fly and scab this year," says Gabriëls. Belgium actually has a lot of problems with this. "We do see (just like in Belgium) problems with mildew, especially in organic carrots." It is not surprising that the organic sector is specifically affected. These plots cannot be sprayed against mildew. "However, it is almost not at the expense of the yield."
Damage caused by mouse damage is also a topic in this season. "Yet this was less serious than in other years. Many carrot growers in Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia have chosen this season to create a 'gribbetje' (a steep side) near the plot, so that the mice do not enter the field. It is a significant investment, but so far it seems to be paying off."
Corona hype is over
The extreme demand for onions and carrots that was visible at the beginning of the corona crisis has now weakened. "Consumption is back to normal levels," says Gabriëls. "The carrot prices are not bad either, but they are currently at the lowest point of the season. We now have to wait and see until the supermarkets come up with promotions regarding the first fresh carrots."