No flood damages expected for South African table grapes
South African table grapes will need some extra mildew management following extensive flooding this past weekend in the Western Cape.
Overall losses appear minor, however. No damages have been reported from the Berg River or the Hex River Valley regions, said the South African Table Grape Industry's (SATI) technical manager, André van Wyk.
"As the development of the grapes are at an early stage (in the flowering and set phase), there has been no damage, and thus no impact expected," he said of the Berg River Region.
The region will be affected, however, by powdery mildew for Flame Seedless, Prime, Regal Seedless and Sunred Seedless. This could result in increased management costs for farmers.
In the Hex River Valley, van Wyk reported no damage and said that plantations could actually benefit from the unseasonal rainfall.
"There could actually be a positive quality impact as the rain will boost vine growth and water uptake in bunches should assist in the faster increase of berry size," he said.
Related stories:Â South African table grape forecast on track with last season
Mixed conditions for South African grape development
Photo: www.shutterstock.com
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