Climatologist: Polish Farmers Must Prepare for Sharp Weather Swings
Climatologist Prof. Bogdan Chojnicki of Poznań University of Life Sciences says water balance, soil condition and adaptability are becoming ever more important for farmers. A longer growing season does not in itself mean higher yields.
Polish farmers need to prepare for sharp swings in weather, including drought, heat and late frosts. This was the message from climatologist Prof. Bogdan Chojnicki of Poznań University of Life Sciences in a conversation published by the farming portal topagrar.pl. Speaking with Karol Bujoczek, publishing director at AgroHorti Media, he explained that a longer growing season does not guarantee higher yields.
Rainfall totals are not everything
For farmers, the water balance is becoming more important: how much water falls, when it falls and how long it stays available in the soil. According to the professor, even if total precipitation does not drop noticeably, its distribution may become less favourable. During heavy downpours, part of the water runs off quickly instead of soaking into the soil, while higher temperatures increase evaporation. Dry spells can therefore bring deeper droughts.
Soil and water retention
The main defence against drought is the condition of the soil: its structure, organic matter content and ability to hold water. This matters most on weaker soils. The discussion also covered field shelterbelts and windbreaks, which reduce wind speed and help retain water, but may compete with the wish to use as much field area as possible.
The professor also noted that water retention begins in the field, not only in reservoirs. Draining water away too quickly through ditches can worsen shortages.
Earlier spring and frosts
A warmer climate does not mean the risk of frost disappears. If the growing season starts earlier, plants may enter sensitive development stages before the danger of frost has passed. A temperature drop during flowering can cause serious losses, for example in orchards and vineyards. Farmers should not abandon winter-hardy varieties on the assumption that winters are milder.
Less snow, more dependence
Snow cover works as a natural water store. With less snow, farmers depend more on spring rainfall, which does not always arrive on time.
In the coming years, farms will have to adapt their technology and crop structure to local conditions. On the weakest soils, maintaining production may require larger investment, and in some cases part of the land may have to be used for other purposes.
