The expert expects that watermelons in Russia will become much more expensive due to the pest invasion.
Roman Ponomarev, a specialist in growing melon crops, shared a comment on this topic.
The melon grower said that in previous years the harvest was so plentiful that by the middle of the season the fruit was simply left in the fields, writes the Parliamentary Newspaper .
But in 2024, the situation is different. The harvest this time is far from ideal due to the invasion of thrips. The parasite's activity leads to the fruits not gaining even 50% of the required weight.
A crop shortage caused by a pest infestation could push up prices.
In 2023, the average price of berries in bulk was 10-12 rubles per 1 kg. This year, the cost has already reached 15-18 rubles.
As for retail prices, in 2023 watermelons cost an average of 30-36 rubles per 1 kg. This year, they are expected to cost 45-54 rubles. On average, prices for watermelons and melons will increase by 50%, the melon grower predicts.
