Climate Change Impact on Fruit Crops and Mitigation through Climate-Smart Production Practices

Abstract

Climate change poses significant threats to fruit crops worldwide, affecting growth, development, and productivity. Warmer temperatures disrupt flowering patterns, reduce fruit set, and increase pollination failures, leading to lower yields and decreased fruit quality. Climate change also alters suitable production areas, chilling hours, and pest dynamics, further exacerbating the issue. To address these challenges, this study highlights the importance of implementing climate resilience strategies, such as cultivating climate-ready crops, adopting low-chill and drought-tolerant varieties, selecting suitable rootstocks, and utilizing agro-techniques like fruit bagging and mulching. Additionally, specific chemicals like chitosan and the Bordeaux mixture can help mitigate the negative impacts of climate change on fruit crops. By adopting these strategies, fruit producers can enhance crop resilience, reduce physiological disorders, and promote sustainable productivity in the face of climate change.