Agrometeorological forecast for the end of August

At the end of August, agrometeorological conditions will continue to be determined by hot and dry weather. The absence of precipitation of agricultural significance since the beginning of the month, with the exception of certain areas in Southern Bulgaria (Kardzhali – 41 l/m2, Haskovo – 18 l/m2 and Elhovo – 13 l/m2), and the forecast dry weather over the coming days will deepen the deficit of soil water reserves for agricultural crops.

During the period, maize will be in the milk, dough and full maturity stages, depending on the earliness of the hybrids. Sunflower has generally completed its phenological development. When harvesting the crop, it is recommended that the seed moisture content be 8–9%, depending on the conditions and the intended storage duration of the production. In orchards with plums, pears, apples and peaches, fruit ripening will be taking place. In table grape varieties, ripening will be observed by the end of the period, while in red wine varieties berry colouring will occur.

During the period, agrotechnical activities will be related to deep ploughing of stubble fields after winter cereal crops intended for spring sowing, preparation and sowing of fields with winter rapeseed, and harvesting of sunflower. The low soil moisture will hamper the quality performance of mechanical tillage. Plant protection activities will be aimed at protecting vegetable crops from diseases and pests (downy mildews, aphids, mites) and protecting vineyards from powdery mildew. The application of plant protection products should be carried out during the cooler hours of the day and in calm weather.

The degree of fire hazard remains high.