Unseasonal Freeze Threatens Pear Harvest in Jeonnam Province

Farmers in Naju and Yeongam,located in south Jeolla Province (Jeonnam),are grappling with the aftermath of a sudden cold wave that struck during the crucial flowering period for pear trees. Sub-zero temperatures have caused notable damage, raising concerns about the upcoming harvest and the economic stability of local agricultural communities.

Extent of the Damage: Blackened Pistils and Reduced Fruit Set

Reports indicate that the cold snap,which occurred between March 29th and April 1st,caused temperatures to plummet below freezing. This resulted in the pistils of pear blossoms turning black, a clear sign of frost damage. In one affected orchard in Geumcheon-myeon,Naju,an inspection revealed that 8 to 10 buds on eggplants,covering 429 square meters,were damaged. This discoloration prevents normal blooming, limiting fruit production and perhaps reducing the quality of the remaining pears.

Lim Ho-yeol, a local orchard owner, lamented the widespread impact of the cold weather, noting that the unseasonably low temperatures began as early as March 28th.

As the weather has become cold since March 28, the overall cold sea has occurred.
Lim Ho-yeol, Orchard Owner

Regional Impact and Insurance Claims

Preliminary data from city and county agricultural technology centers reveals the extent of the damage across Jeonnam Province. Naju has been the hardest hit, with approximately 1748 hectares affected, followed by Yeongam (292 hectares) and Suncheon (182 hectares). As of April 2nd,the total damaged area in Jeonnam is still being assessed.

Lee Il-kyun, executive director of Geumcheon Agricultural Cooperatives, confirmed that numerous members have already filed insurance claims due to the low-temperature damage.

Currently, more than 10 members have received insurance due to low temperature damage.
Lee Il-kyun, Executive Director, Geumcheon Agricultural Cooperatives

Farmers Struggle to Mitigate Losses

Despite efforts to protect their crops, farmers have struggled to prevent the damage. Jeong Seok-ki, who cultivates 8264 square meters of pear trees in Yeongam Shinbuk-myeon, explained that even spraying water around the orchard, a common practice to combat frost, proved insufficient.

Rising Costs Compound Challenges

Adding to the farmers’ woes, the cost of pollen, essential for pollination, has nearly doubled compared to last year, reaching approximately 60,000 won per 20g bag. This increase further strains their already tight budgets.

The cost of pollen is also around 60,000 won per bag of 20g, which is nearly doubled from last year.

Looking Ahead: Support and Recovery Efforts

Despite the setbacks, farmers are taking immediate action, including spraying nutrients to support the surviving blossoms. Lee Dong-hee, head of the Nonghyup Union, emphasized the importance of maximizing the pollination rate of undamaged flowers and pledged to provide ample pollen.

It is indeed best to increase the correction rate for pear flowers that have no damage. We are prepared to spread enough pollen.
Lee Dong-hee, Head of the Nonghyup Union

While the full impact on pear production remains uncertain, Yoo Deok-gyu, director of the Food and Society of Jeonnam-do, acknowledged the difficulty in assessing the long-term consequences of the cold damage.

Climate Change Concerns

The recent cold snap follows a period of extreme heat last summer, highlighting the increasing challenges posed by climate change to south korean agriculture. Farmers are expressing growing concern about the unpredictable weather patterns and the need for proactive measures to mitigate future losses. The Naju Bae Sea Nonghyup is considering expanding support for frost protection measures,such as pre-fans and micro-spraying systems.