With the continued drop in temperatures during the winter season, agricultural experts have warned of the negative effects of cold weather on crop growth, particularly winter vegetables and fruit crops, due to reduced efficiency of nutrient uptake from the soil.
Specialists explained that low temperatures slow down root activity, which limits the plant’s ability to absorb major nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients. This directly affects vegetative growth strength, flowering quality, and fruit set.
Experts noted that many farmers observe clear symptoms on plants during this period, including:
Slow or halted growth.
Weak flowering and poor fruit set.
Leaf yellowing or deformation.
Increased occurrence of physiological disorders caused by nutrient deficiencies.
They emphasized that the solution is not simply increasing fertilizer rates, but rather adjusting fertilization programs to suit current climatic conditions. Recommended practices include:
Relying more on foliar fertilization during periods of severe cold.
Using fertilizers that are fast and easy to absorb.
Focusing on nutrients that enhance plant tolerance to stress.
Avoiding excessive irrigation, which increases soil coldness and weakens root activity.
Experts also stressed the importance of continuous crop monitoring throughout the winter season and early intervention when nutrient deficiency symptoms appear, to maintain plant health and ensure good productivity as weather conditions improve.
They concluded by highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition during winter, confirming that proper fertilization management at this stage is a key factor in achieving a successful agricultural season and producing strong, high-quality crops.