The extended drought has been affecting Brazil’s main coffee-growing regions and could have an impact on one of the most important stages of production: coffee flowering, which is crucial for defining the future crop. In addition to the lack of rainfall, high temperatures are also having an impact on the plants, which can suffer from heat stress.
In recent years, Brazilian coffee growing has faced even greater challenges due to climate change. Phenomena such as La Niña and El Niño have aggravated the situation, making rainfall more irregular and raising temperatures higher than expected. During last winter, for example, temperatures above 30ºC for a prolonged period of time affected both the development of the crops and the process of drying the beans, especially in the production of washed coffee.
World-renowned meteorological organizations warn that climate change will continue to impact global agriculture. Given this scenario, efficient practices, such as the adoption of irrigation methods, are essential to mitigate these impacts on coffee growing.
Irrigation methods in coffee growing
Irrigation plays an important role in maintaining productivity in times of climate change. The two main methods used are drip and sprinkler, each with its own specific characteristics.
Drip irrigation stands out for its efficient use of water, which is applied directly to the plant’s root zone. This system minimizes losses through evaporation and runoff, making it ideal for regions with water scarcity. It also allows for the uniform distribution of water and the application of nutrients, increasing efficiency in crop management and saving on water use and operating costs.
Source:(https://souagro.net/noticia/2023/07/cafeicultor-sai-de-7-para-80-sacas-por-hectare-com-irrigacao-por-gotejamento/)
On the other hand, we have sprinkler irrigation, which is a method that simulates rain by distributing water in droplet form throughout the planting area. This system is ideal for large areas with uniform topography, as sprinkling has the potential to cover larger areas.
Source: (https://blog.verde.ag/pt/nutricao-de-plantas/irrigacao-produtividade-do-cafe/)
When sprinkling, the water is released into the air and falls evenly on the plants and soil, irrigating both the area around the coffee tree and the soil itself. However, sprinkler irrigation requires careful monitoring to avoid wasting water, especially on windy or hot days, which can increase evaporation. To maximize efficiency, it is essential that the system is adjusted to the specific conditions of each area, taking into account the topography and local water availability.
Farm sustainability
Irrigation is important, but it alone does not guarantee the resilience of coffee growing. For activities in the countryside to be sustainable in the long term, it is necessary to prioritize the conscious use of natural resources and environmental preservation. Thus, sustainability must guide all agricultural practices, ensuring that the impact of climate change is minimized, while the health and productivity of the crops are maintained.
Atlantica’s Mutua Program contributes to this process. Through technical support and planning, it encourages the preservation of forests and springs, which are essential for maintaining water resources and ecological balance. Protecting springs promotes the availability of water for irrigating plantations, contributing to the sustainability of crops. With the effective implementation of these practices, producers benefit not only their coffee plantations, but also the entire ecosystem around the farms, promoting a cycle of sustainability that ensures the health of crops and natural resources.