Things to be aware of for efficient agricultural production in cold weather

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technologies Dean Prof. Dr. İbrahim Baktır stated that as with every sector, that agricultural activities also have their own internal dynamics and noted that especially cultivation that is performed intertwined with nature, in the open air, is at risk according to the regions and the cold resistance of the plants that are being produced.

Explaining that in the past week we have really felt the cold weather, Baktır went on to say, “For example, for greenhouse cultivation that we call undercover cultivation, the winter cold is not wanted”.

Adding that greenhouse production is evaluated as intensive production because it is a form of production that is out-of-season production, Prof. Dr. Baktır elaborated, “The inputs of greenhouse production are quite high. Of the input costs of greenhouse cultivation, heating expenses constitute a large portion”.

Drawing attention to the fact that it is for this reason that producers prefer to grow products that are more resistant to the winter colds or are partially stronger, Baktır added that the construction of the greenhouse being very solid and sufficiently equipped with equipment is important.

Expressing that due to different natural events in Cyprus frequently occurring, negative weather movements are also experienced frequently, Baktır went on to state, "For this reason, simple greenhouses can always face the damage of wind and frost".

Baktır reminded that the greenhouses directions and heights complying with the standards Is important, and noted that the cover materials that are durable and transmit more light should be used.

Baktır underlined that in Cyprus, another important issue is the selection of the greenhouse location, and informed, "Greenhouses should be set up in locations that are close to the beach, where frosting occurs less frequently due to the sea’s softening effect upon the weather, such as Tatlısu and Yeşilırmak”.

Drawing attention to the benefits of cold weather upon agriculture, provided that the temperature is not too low, Baktır noted, “Cold weather (such as -2 or -3 °C) lasting for three to four days, freezes the eggs of many harmful insects. This is very important for both fruit growers and foresters”.

Explaining that fruit trees such as peach, nectarine, apple and pear, that originate from temperate climates, need to get at least 500-600 hours of cooling during the winter period in order to bear fruit, Baktır concluded, “This is a mandatory requirement. Otherwise, the trees will bloom, but they will not bear fruit”.