Heavy Rainfall and Humidity Impact Strawberry Production in Southern Spain

Strawberry growers in Huelva have been facing significant challenges in recent weeks due to persistent rain and high humidity levels, according to Freshuelva, the Association of Strawberry Producers and Exporters of Huelva.

The association reported that excessive rainfall throughout February and the first half of March has slowed down fruit ripening and left between 15-20 per cent of the crop unsuitable for sale.

Freshuelva’s manager, Rafael Domínguez, told Europa Press that the primary issue stems from the accumulation of moisture in the macrotunnels, which has negatively affected the fruit.

However, Domínguez expressed optimism about the coming weeks, as improved weather conditions expected from 19 or 20 March should enhance fruit quality just as consumer demand increases.

“We know that these are the peak months of the campaign because we are now moving into spring, and therefore strawberries are in high demand in the markets, and we will be able to offer the fruit that consumers are asking for,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Price and Market Observatory highlighted that strawberry prices are rising internationally, noting that “although demand for berries is good, Spanish products are in short supply due to the rains.”