With the arrival of autumn, a period of great attention begins in coffee farming. The drop in temperatures and the decrease in rainfall mark the final phase of grain maturation and require adjustments in agricultural practices to ensure a high-quality harvest. However, this year, the climate scenario brings even more intense challenges due to the global increase in temperatures, which directly impact production.
The climate impact on coffee crops
Autumn marks the transition between summer and winter, bringing reduced rainfall and temperature variations, which increases the risk of water stress, making water management even more essential. In addition, these conditions favor the proliferation of pests, such as the coffee berry borer, and the emergence of fungal diseases, such as coffee rust. Therefore, pest and disease control becomes a priority to protect production and ensure the quality of the beans.
This year, however, the challenges will go beyond what was expected. Crops will face the impacts of an increasingly unstable climate, a direct reflection of ongoing climate change. The arrival of the La Niña phenomenon could alleviate some of the effects, but according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), it will not be enough to reverse the impact of global warming. The summer of 2025 in Brazil has already shown signs of this trend, being the second hottest on record, with average temperatures between December and February 0.73°C above the historical climatology, according to data from Climatempo.
Overcoming the challenges of autumn
To face the challenges posed by autumn and weather conditions, it is essential to adopt integrated strategies:
- Water management: The scarcity of water requires the optimized use of water resources. Efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation, are key to supplying the required amount without wasting it. Constant monitoring of soil moisture is also crucial to avoid water stress.
- Technological Monitoring: The use of sensors and digital technologies enables constant monitoring of the crop, focusing on weather conditions, rainfall levels and plant health. This targeted monitoring makes it possible to respond quickly to problems such as lack of water, the appearance of pests or diseases, and climatic variations. With this data in real time, producers can make more assertive decisions, optimizing resources and ensuring higher quality in the harvest.
- Sustainable pest and disease control: Biological solutions and practices such as crop rotation and biofertilizer application help keep crops healthy and minimize the use of chemical pesticides, in line with more sustainable production.
- Adapting to extreme weather conditions: Investing in agricultural practices such as planting native trees for shade, the use of mulches and management techniques to retain water in the soil can reduce the impact of heat stress, improve water retention and help maintain production stability.
- Long-term planning: Maintaining the soil and using organic fertilizers prepares the crop for the challenges of the next cycle. This care not only contributes to the health of the plant, but also promotes the long-term sustainability of production.
Atlantica Coffee’s role in supporting producers
Atlantica Coffee works alongside producers to face the challenges posed by climate variations, offering strategic guidelines and reliable information that strengthen decision-making. Through guidance, we promote efficient practices, contributing to the health and balance of the crop.
Our commitment goes beyond marketing: we seek to strengthen the sector’s resilience, encouraging sustainable solutions that guarantee the continuity of coffee farming and the development of producers.
