Crop report 2015 July (Saaz area)

1. Basic weather conditions datas

temperature °C

rainfalls mm

Over period of last 30-years this July was warmer. Temperature were above-average by +2,5 °C but in contrast rainfalls were below average by (- 11,8 mm). Overall, rainfall is below average since the beginning of the year ie 29.3 millimeters (11.0% less). These data are from a weather station Zatec, present for the Zatec region. This year, there are wide differences in rainfalls within Saaz area, for example Nesuchyně was measured at 19.6 mm rainfalls and in Kněževes only 8.1 mm rainfalls.

2. Vegetation stage

Hops grow up to the top of the construction in most areas at the beginning of the month. Hops looked very nice which could indicate a very good harvest. However, the lack of rainfall, which virtually from 10.7. there have been almost no raifalls at the time of flowering and ripenning. Absance of rainfalls will have a negative impact on the size and weight of cones. We expect the beginning of the harvest around by the deadline 20.08 - 24.8. Currently, we estimate that production of hops will about 25-30% lower compared to 2014.

3. Pests and diseases

Overall, the hops are in a good condition. The chemical treatment of hops against fungal diseases and animal pests was applied smoothly. Due to continuous high temperatures there are fears of greater incidence and overgrowth of the red spider mite. Which could affect the yield and quality of hops, and also affect the start of the harvest due to withdrawal period used chemical products.