Concerns Loom over Olive Oil Production in Jaén
The production of olives , and consequently olive oil, has experienced turbulent times. The drought of 2023 jeopardized the harvest, but the return of rains last year provided some relief to producers. However, the agricultural sector in Jaén is now expressing concern about what the future holds.
Is it a Crisis or a Return to Normality?
Pessimism in Projections. The Coordinadora de Organizaciones de Agricultores y Ganaderos de Jaén (COAG Jaén) has expressed its concerns regarding the current olive harvest. Although the association suggests that it is still too early to make precise predictions, certain areas within the province already anticipate yields that are 30% to 40% lower than last year’s output.
Producers identify several factors contributing to these grim forecasts, including high temperatures , pest risks, and a natural phenomenon known as crop alternation or vecería .
Unfavorable Weather Conditions
Weather plays a crucial role. One of the major concerns highlighted by the coordinadora is the weather. Specifically, the heat waves that have persisted since late May pose a significant threat. This year, temperatures in various regions of Andalusia soared above 40ºC before spring ended.
Notably, this issue may not extend to other regions. Rainfall across the Mediterranean may yield a positive impact on local crops. Farmers are now hoping that temperatures do not drop at the beginning of summer, minimizing the risk of the prays pest.
Pest Threats
Pests are a significant concern. Various pests threaten this year’s olive harvest, with the prays (Prays oleae), commonly known as the olive moth, being particularly alarming. By May, the Junta de Andalucía alerted to “notable levels of attack” associated with this pest.
The life cycle of this insect is intimately linked to the olive grove, featuring several generations per year which can adversely affect the plants. Data from the Junta focuses on the foliage-destroying generation , which impacts the leaves. Experts are currently monitoring the flower-destroying generation , affecting the flowers.
The cottony cushion scale (Euphyllura olivina) also raises alarms. This insect derives its name from the “cotton-like” appearance surrounding its nymphs.
The Vecería Phenomenon
Understanding vecería. Vecería, or alternation, is a natural occurrence affecting various crops. It manifests when crops struggle to produce at full capacity for two consecutive years. According to the coordinadora, while some regions in Jaén experienced “average” production last season, certain olive trees are already showing signs of vecería .
Searching for Indicators. As emphasized by COAG Jaén in their statement, it is still early to make accurate estimations for this year’s harvest. The agricultural association notes that olive trees have two critical moments demanding significant water: flowering , typically occurring between April and May, and maturation in September.
Therefore, it will be necessary to wait a few months before forming a concrete understanding of the harvest. However, what insights can be gleaned about the flowering process? Pollen levels could provide clues.
According to COAG Jaén’s data, the peak concentration of pollen in the air was recorded on May 19, with 7,711 grains per cubic meter , significantly lower than peak levels in previous years, which often exceeded 15,000 grains , as stated by the association.
While the future of the olive harvest remains uncertain, the agricultural community is keeping a vigilant eye on both meteorological conditions and pest threats. Constant monitoring and adaptive strategies will be essential moving forward.
Image Source: Natalia Gusakova