PR 2024/25 Harvest: rains boost agricultural production

The week of January 14-20 was marked by rain in almost all of Paraná, benefiting most crops. This is according to the Weather and Cultivation Conditions Bulletin of the Department of Rural Economy. The rainfall, which had not been recorded in a significant way since Christmas in some areas, helped to alleviate the heat and water shortage. However, isolated points faced problems such as erosion, hail and strong winds.

Fruit and vegetable growing 

The apple harvest continues to be promising, with good productivity and high-quality fruit. Pears, grown in smaller areas, will be harvested in the coming weeks, while strawberry producers are celebrating good prices and yields. Despite the adverse weather conditions, plums and peaches had lower production, but were valued in the market. Grapes, on the other hand, continue to be harvested, with intermediate production potential.

The rains also benefited outdoor vegetables such as squash, cabbage and tomatoes, which were suffering from low humidity and high temperatures. However, the increase in supply put downward pressure on prices, especially for products such as lettuce and beets.

Onion and tobacco

The onion harvest was completed with good productivity. However, the excess product on the market led to a reduction in prices, which in some cases were below production costs. Tobacco cultivation, on the other hand, showed growth in the Rio Azul region, with producers focusing on harvesting and drying the product in greenhouses.

Grains and cereals

The rains also helped to contain losses in soybean production. Despite this, some areas recorded accelerated maturation and lower grain weight, which should impact final yields. So far, 8% of the harvest has been completed, and 81% of the areas are in good condition.

In beans, the 1st harvest has shown significant progress, with 83% of the harvest completed and 88% of the crops classified as good. Planting of the 2nd harvest has already begun, with 15% of the areas planted and 96% in good condition.

The first corn crop is showing high expectations, with 1% of the areas in good condition and 93% of the plants in the fruiting stage. The planting of the second crop is underway, but with occasional reports of leafhopper attacks.

Potato crops also stand out. The 1st harvest is 76% complete, while 47% of the 2nd harvest has already been planted, both with more than 90% of the areas in good condition.

Climate outlook 

This week's more favorable weather boosted the recovery of several crops and allowed producers to advance in the harvest and planting of the 2nd crop, especially in the case of grains such as beans and corn. Despite specific weather challenges, the overall scenario remains positive, with good expectations for the 2024/25 harvest.