Fruit trees in Luxembourg are currently under significant stress, especially those bearing fruit, due to persistent heat and drought. This was the central message from Jean-Claude Muller, President of the Luxembourg Fruit Growers’ Association, during the association’s general assembly on Friday evening. Muller highlighted that while this year’s harvest remains uncertain, growers are already witnessing some fruit dropping prematurely and face the risk of sunburn damaging their produce.
Sunburn is not only a problem for people, but also for fruit. Muller explained that when an apple is exposed to the sun all day, the surface can reach temperatures of over 60 or even 70 degrees. The apple literally burns, turns brown and begins to rot.
While sunlight is typically beneficial, helping fruit develop sweetness, it only does so if trees receive enough water. The lack of rainfall means that many orchards now have to irrigate their crops, often relying on drinking water. Growers regret this necessity, noting that they would prefer alternative solutions. Muller advocated for better water management, urging that surplus rainwater should be collected and stored during wetter periods, so it can be used in times of drought and strongly appeals to policymakers to prioritise this issue.
The question of why such systems are not yet in place remains difficult to answer. Muller noted that while the Minister of Agriculture and her team are supportive, responsibility ultimately lies with the Ministry of the Environment. Agriculture Minister Martine Hansen acknowledged that the matter falls under the environmental portfolio, but stressed that both fruit and vegetable growers urgently need water and that it must be made easier to authorise water reservoirs to sustain fruit and vegetable cultivation, especially under current conditions.
The new agricultural law will continue to support fruit growing through coupled payments, but progress is slower than hoped, according to Hansen. She said the ministry will analyse the reasons for these delays and explore ways to improve support. The sector has been tasked with preparing for the next agricultural roundtable (Agrardësch) scheduled for the end of this year.
