SPP "Enogray" in Kherson is set to begin its sweet cherry harvest in late May. This year's crop has been significantly impacted by fluctuating temperatures, with those varieties that bloomed in colder weather facing poor fruit sets.

The yield for this season is expected to be only slightly higher than last year's, with anticipated lower prices due to market conditions. Currently, consumers are prioritising essential vegetables over fruits, which are considered a luxury. Despite the high costs of fuel and pesticides, the farm hopes to achieve prices that at least cover their expenses.

Logistics remain manageable for SPP "Enogray," thanks to their transport vehicles. However, the security situation in Kherson has deterred many transporters, who now charge triple the usual rates.

This season, the enterprise plans to focus on the domestic market. A significant issue remains the shortage of seasonal workers, exacerbated by instability in the region.

Before the war, the orchard spanned 400 hectares, now reduced to 160 hectares, with primary crops being peaches, sweet cherries, and plums. Last autumn, they planted over 50,000 peach saplings of 64 unique varieties from Spain.

A sorting line, purchased before the war, remains uninstalled due to the destruction of its intended facility. The farm has sufficient storage for the berries, with four chambers for 200 tons restored after the reoccupation, and a cold storage facility for 3,000 tons. Despite the challenges, SPP "Enogray" aims to harvest at least 200 tons of cherries this season.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com